n,;' 


MICHIGAN 

MASONIC  MONITOR. 


ADOPTED  BY 


THE  GRAND  LODGE 
FREE  AND  ACCEPTED  MASONS 
OF  MICHIGAN. 

1897. 


PUBLISHED  BY  THE  GRAND  LODGE 

UNDER  THE  DIRECTION  OF 


LOU  B.  Wl  NSOR 

Grand  Secretary. 

1910 


; - Co  . \ 

KiS'S'Vw 

✓ 


Edition  of  January,  igio- 


PREFACE. 


The  Michigan  Masonic  Monitor  and  Cere- 
monies was  prepafed  and  arranged  by  a com- 
mittee consisting  of  Past  Grand  Masters  Frank 
T.  Lodge,  John  J.  Carton  and  Lou  B.  Winsor, 
in  1895.  It  was  practically  a revision  of  the 
Webb-Fenton  Monitor,  with  some  additions  to 
the  paragraph  upon  the  lamb  skin  or  white 
' leathern  apron,  leaving  the  general  text  of  the 
work  as  we  have  had  it  for  the  last  half  a 
century. 

The  Grand  Lodge  F.  & A.  M.  of  the  State 
of  Michigan  formally  adopted  the  work  in  Jan- 
uary, 1897,  and  several  editions  of  the  same  have 
been  published  since  that  time. 

At  the  annual  communication  of  Grand 
Lodge  held  in  the  city  of  Jackson,  May  26-27, 
JO08,  a few  changes  were  ordered  made,  the  most 
Wiportant  being  the  restoration  of  the  monitorial 
work  of  the  paragraph  on  ''  The  Globes ''  \s 
embodied  in  our  former  work.  \ 

^ This  edition  gives  th^  correct  monitorial 
i work  as  adopted  by  Grand  Lodge,  and  is  com- 
^ :te  to  date. 

The  same  general  style  has  been  followed 
as  in  former  editions  of  eliminating  all  matter 
that  was  simply  explanatory  or  historical  in 
character  and  giving  in  a compact  and  system- 
atized form,  unincumbered  with  anything  of  a 
different  nature,  the  monitorial  work  as  author- 
ized to  be'used  in  the  Michigan  Lodges. 

Fraternally, 

LOU  B.  WINSOR, 

Grand  Secretary. 

Reed  City,  Mich.,  January  20,  A.  D.  1910. 


I^plet 


V 


Digitized  by  the  Internet  Archive 
in  2016  with  funding  from 

University  of  Illinois  Urbana-Champaign  Alternates 


/ 


https://archive.org/details/michiganmasonicmOOfree 

f 


THE 

MICHIGAN  MASONIC  MONITOR 


Copyrighted,  1897,  by  the  Grand  Lodge 
F.  & A.  M.,  Michigan. 


CHAPTER  I. 


A PRAYER, 

Used  at  Opening  a Lodge. 

May  the  blessing  of  Heaven  rest  upon  this 
meeting,  so  happily  begun.  May  it  be  conducted 
in  order  and  closed  in  harmony.  Amen. 

A PRAYER, 

Used  at  Closing  the  Lodge. 

May  the  blessing  of  Heaven  rest  upon  us, 
and  all  regular  Masons.  May  brotherly  love 
prevail,  and  every  moral  and  social  virtue  cement 
us.  Amen. 


6 


* >K 

DECLARATION. 

To  be  assented  to  by  a Candidate,  previous  to 
Initiation, 

Do  you  seriously  declare,  upon  your  honor, 
before  these  gentlemen,  that  unbiased  by  the 
solicitation  of  friends,  and  uninfluenced  by  mer- 
cenary motives,  you  freely  and  voluntarily  offer 
yourself  a candidate  for  the  mysteries,  of  Ma- 
sonry ? I do. 

Do  you  seriously  declare,  upon  your  hondr, 
before  these  gentlemen,  that  you  are  prompted 
to  solicit  the  privileges  of  Masonry  by  a favor- 
able opinion  conceived  of  the  institution,  a de- 
sire of  knowledge,  and  a sincere  wish  to  be  ser- 
viceable to  your  fellowmen?  I do. 

Do  you  seriously  declare,  upon  your  honor, 
before  these  gentlemen,  that  you  will  cheerfully 
conform  to  all  the  ancient  established  usages  and 
customs  of  the  Fraternity?  I do. 

A PRAYER, 

Used  at  the  Initiation  of  a Candidate. 

VOUCHSAFE  thine  aid,  Almighty  Father 
ot  the  Universe,  to  this  our  present  convention; 
grant  that  this  candidate  for  Masonry  may  dedi- 
cate and  devote  his  life  to  Thy  service,  and  be- 
come a true  and  faithful  brother  among  us.  In- 


7 


due  him  with  a competency  of  Thy  Divine  wis- 
dom, that  by  the  pure  principles  of  our  fraternity 
he  may  be  better  enabled  to  display  the  beauties 
of  brotherly  love,  relief,  and  truth ; to  the  honor 
of  Thy  holy  name ! Amen. 

* 

* * 

SCRIPTURE. 

BEHOLD,  how  good  and  how  pleasant  it  is 
for  brethren  to  dwell  together  in  unity. 

It  is  like  the  precious  ointment  upon  the 
head,  that  ran  down  upon  the  beard,  even 
Aaron's  beard : that  went  down  to  the  skirts  of 
his  garments : 

As  the  dew  of  Hermon,  and  as  the  dew  that 
descended  upon  the  mountains  of  Zion : for  there 
the  Lord  commanded  the  blessing,  even  life  for 
evermore. — Psalm  cxxxiii. 

* 

5k  5k 

THE  LAMB  SKIN, 

Or  white  leathern  apron,  is  an  emblem  of  inno- 
cence, and  the  badge  of  a Mason : more  ancient 
than  the  Golden  Fleece  or  Roman  Eagle  ; and 
when  worthily  worn,  more  honorable  than  the 
Star  and  Garter,  or  any  other  order  that  can  be 
conferred  upon  you  at  this  time,  or  at  any  future 
period,  by  king,  prince,  potentate  or  any  other 
person,  except  he  be  a Mason ; it  is  hoped  you 


8 


will  wear  it  with  equal  pleasure  to  yourself  and 
honor  to  the  Fraternity. 

It  may  be,  my  brother,  that,  in  the  years  to 
come,  upon  your  brow  will  rest  the  laurel  leaves 
of  victory;  from  your  breast  hang  jewels  fit  to 
grace  the  costliest  diadem.  Nay,  more;  with 
light  added  to  the  coming  light,  your  ambitious 
feet  may  tread  round  after  round  of  the  ladder 
that  leads  to  fame  within  our  mystic  circle,  and 
even  the  purple  of  our  fraternity  may  rest  upon 
your  honored  shoulders.  But  never  again  from 
mortal  hands,  never  again  until  your  enfran- 
chised spirit  shall  have  passed  upward  and  inward 
through  the  pearly  gates,  shall  any  honor  so  dis- 
tinguished, so  emblematic  of  purity,  and  all  per- 
fection, be  bestowed  upon  you  as  this  which  I 
confer  tonight. 

It  is  yours,  my  brother,  yours  to  wear 
through  an  honorable  life,  and  at  your  death — • 
for  we  are  all  born  to  die — it  may  be  laid  upon 
the  coffin  which  encloses  your  lifeless  remains, 
and  with  them  laid  beneath  the  silent  clods  of 
the  valley.  May  its  pure  and  spotless  surface  be 
to  you  a constant  reminder  of  unblemished  pur- 
ity of  life  and  rectitude  of  conduct ; a never  end- 
ing argument  for  higher  thoughts,  for  nobler 
deeds,  for  purer  actions.  And  when  at  last  your 
weary  feet  shall  have  reached  the  end  of  their 
toilsome  journey,  and  from  your  nerveless  grasp 
shall  forever  drop  the  working  tools  of  life,  may 


9 


the  record  of  your  life  and  conduct  be  as  pure 
and  spotless  as  this  fair  emblem  which  I now 
place  within  your  hand. 

And  when  your  soul  shall  stand  naked  and 
alone  before  the  Great  White  Throne,  may  it  be 
your  lot,  my  brother,  to  hear  from  Him  who  sit- 
teth  there  as  Judge  Supreme,  the  welcome  words. 
Well  done,  good  and  faithful  servant,  enter  thou 
into  the  joy  of  thy  Lord/’ 


^ * 

THE  TWENTY-FOUR  INCH  GAUGE 

Is  an  instrument  made  use  of  by  operative  Ma- 
sons, to  measure  and  lay  out  their  work ; but  we, 
as  Free  and  Accepted  Masons,  are  taught  to 
make  use  of  it  for  the  more  noble  and  glorious 
purpose  of  dividing  our  time.  It  being  divided 
into  twenty-four  equal  parts  is  emblematic  of 
the  twenty-four  hours  of  the  day,  which  we  are 
taught  to  divide  into  three  equal  parts,  whereby 
we  find  a portion  for  the  service  of  God  and  a 
distressed  worthy  brother;  a portion  for  our 
usual  avocations ; and  a portion  for  refresh- 
ment and  sleep. 

* 

^ * 

THE  COMMON  GAVEL 
Is  an  instrument  made  use  of  b}^  operative  Ma- 
sons to  break  off  the  corners  of  rough  stones. 


10 


the  better  to  fit  them  for  the  builder's  use;  but 
we,  as  Free  and  Accepted  Masons,  are  taught  to 
make  use  of  it  for  the  more  noble  and  glorious 
purpose  of  divesting  our  minds  and  consciences 
of  all  the  vices  and  superfluities  of  life,  thereby 
fitting  us,  as  living  stones,  for  that  spiritual  build- 
ing— that  house  not  made  with  hands,  eternal  in 
the  heavens. 

* 

* * 

THE  BADGE  OE  A MASON. 

The  lamb  has,  in  all  ages,  been  deemed  an 
emblem  of  innocence ; he,  therefore,  who  wears 
the  lamb-skin  as  a badge  of  Masonry,  is  therefore 
continually  reminded  of  that  purity  of  life  and 
conduct  which  is  essentially  necessary  to  his  gain- 
ing admission  into  the  Celestial  Lodge  above, 
where  the  Supreme  Architect  of  the  Universe 
presides. 

❖ 

* Jjs 

THE  COVERING 

Of  a lodge  is  a clouded  canopy  or  starry-decked 
heaven,  where  all  good  Masons  hope  at  last  to 
arrive,  by  the  aid  of  that  theological  ladder,  which 
Jacob,  in  his  vision,  saw  ascending  from  earth  to 
heaven;  the  three  principal  rounds  of  which  are 
denominated  faith,  hope  and  charity;  and  which 
admonish  us  to  have  faith  in  God,  hope  in  im^ 


11 


mortality  and  charity  for  all  mankind.  The 
greatest  of  these  is  Charity,  for  Faith  may  be 
lost  in  sight,  Hope  ends  in  fruition,  but  Charity 
extends  beyond  the  grave,  through  the  boundless 
realms  of  eternity. 


* 

* * 

THE  FURNITURE  OF  A LODGE 

Is  the  Holy  Bible^  the  Sqvtare,  and  the  Compasses. 
The  Bible  is  dedicated  to  God ; the  Square  to  the 
Master;  and  the  Compasses  to  the  Craft, 

THE  BIBLE  is  dedicated  to  God,  because 
it  is  the  inestimable  gift  of  God  to  man; 

The  Square  to  the  Master,  because,  being 
the  proper  Masonic  emblem  of  his  office,  it  is 
constantly  to  remind  him  of  the  duty  he  owes  to 
the  Lodge  over  which  he  has  been  chosen  to  pre- 
side; and  the  Compasses  to  the  Craft,  because 
by  a due  attention  to  its  use,  they  are  taught  to 
regulate  their  desires  and  keep  their  passions 
within  due  bounds. 

* 5k 

THE  ORNAMENTS 

Of  a Lodge  are  the  Mosaic  Pavement,  the  In- 
dented Vessel,  and  the  Blazing  Star.  The  Mo- 
saic Pavement  is  a representation  of  the  ground 
floor  of  King  Solomon’s  Temple  with  a Blazing 


12 


Star  in  the  center ; the  Indented  Tessel,  that  beau- 
tiful tesselated  border  or  skirting  which  sur- 
rounded it.  riie  Mosaic  Pavement  is  emblematic 
of  human  life,  checkered  with  good  and  evil ; the 
beautiful  border  which  surrounds  it,  of  those 
blessings  and  comforts  which  surround  us,  and 
which  we  hope  to  obtain  by  a faithful  reliance  on 
Divine  Providence,  which  is  hieroglyphically  rep- 
resented by  the  Biasing  Star  in  the  center. 

sK 

Hi 

THE  MOVABLE  JEWELS 

Are  the  Rough  Ashlar,  the  Perfect  Ashlar,  and 
the  Trestle  Board. 

The  Rough  Ashlar  is  a stone  as  taken  from 
the  .quarry  in  its  rude  and  natural  state.  The 
Perfect  Ashlar  is  a stone  made  ready  by  the 
workman,  to  be  adjusted  by  the  tools  of  the 
fellow-craft.  The  Trestle  Board  is  for  the  master 
workman  to  draw  his  designs  upon. 

By  the  Rough  Ashlar  we  are  reminded  of 
our  rude  and  imperfect  state  by  nature;  by  the 
Perfect  Ashlar,  that  state  of  perfection  at  which 
we  hope  to  arrive  by  a virtuous  education,  our 
own  endeavors,  and  the  blessing  of  God ; and  by 
the  Trestle  Board  we  are  reminded  that,  as  the 
operative  workman  erects  his  temporal  building 
agreeably  to  the  rules  and  designs  laid  down  by 
the  master  on  his  trestle  board,  so  should  we, 


13 


both  operative  and  speculative,  endeavor  to  erect 
our  spiritual  building  agreeably  to  the  rules  and 
designs  laid  down  by  the  Supreme  Architect  of 
the  Universe  in  the  Book  of  Life,  or  the  Holy 
Scriptures,  which  is  our  spiritual  trestle  board. 

* 

* * 

TO  WHOM  DEDICATED. 

In  ancient  times  Lodges  were  dedicated  to 
King  Solomon, 

But  in  modern  times  they  are  dedicated  to  St. 
John  the  Baptist  and  St.  John  the  Evangelist, 
who  were  eminent  patrons  of  Masonry ; and  since 
their  time  there  is  represented  in  every  regular 
and  well-governed  Lodge  a certain  point  within  a 
Circle;  the  point  representing  an  individual 
Brother ; the  circle  representing  the  boundary 
line  of  his  duty  to  God  and  man,  beyond  which 
he  is  never  to  suffer  his  passions,  prejudices  or 
interests  to  betray  him  on  any  occasion.  This 
circle  is  embordered  by  two  perpendicular  parallel 
lines,  representing  St.  John  the  Baptist  and  St. 
John  the  Evangelist,  who  were  perfect  parallels 
in  Christianity  as  well  as  Masonry ; and  upon  the 
vertex  rests  the  book  of  HOLY  SCRIPTURES, 
which  points  out  the  whole  duty  of  man.  In  go- 
ing round  this  circle,  we  necessarily  touch  upon 
these  two  lines,  as  well  as  upon  the  Holy  Scrip- 
tures ; and  while  a Mason  keeps  himself  thus  cir- 


14 


cumscribed,  it  is  impossible  that  he  should  mater- 
ially err. 

* 

* 

^ BROTHERLY  LOVE. 

By  the  exercise  of  brotherly  love,  we  are 
taught  to  regard  the  whole  human  species  as  one 
family;  the  high  and  low,  the  rich  and  poor; 
who  being  created  by  one  Almighty  Parent,  and 
inhabiting  the  same  planet,  are  to  aid,  support, 
and  protect  one  another.  On  this  principle  Ma- 
sonry unites  men  of  every  country,  sect,  and 
opinion,  and  conciliates  true  friendship  among 
those  who  might  otherwise  have  remained  at  a 
perpetual  distance. 

RELIEF. 

To  relieve  the  distressed  is  a duty  incumbent 
on  all  men ; but  particularly  on  Masons,  who  are 
linked  together  by  an  indissoluble  chain  of  sin- 
cere affection.  To  soothe  the  unhappy,  to  sym- 
pathize with  their  misfortunes,  to  compassionate 
their  miseries,  and  to  restore  peace  to  their 
troubled  minds,  is  the  grand  aim.  we  have  in 
view.  On  this  basis  we  form  our  friendships  and 
establish  our  connections. 

TRUTH. 

Truth  is  a Divine  attribute,  and  the  founda- 
tion of  every  virtue.  To  be  good  and  true  is  the 
first  lesson  we  are  taught  in  Masonry.  On  this 


15 


theme  we  contemplate,  and  by  its  dictates  en- 
deavor to  regulate  our  conduct ; hence,  while  in- 
fluenced by  this  principle,  hyprocrisy  and  deceit 
are  unknown  among  us,  sincerity  and  plain  deal- 
ing distinguish  us,  and  the  heart  and  tongue  join 
in  promoting  one  another’s  welfare,  and  rejoic- 
ing in  one  another’s  prosperity. 

He 

He  He 

TEMPERANCE 

is  that  due  restraint  upon  our  aflfections  and 
passions  which  renders  the  body  tame  and  gov- 
ernable, and  frees  the  mind  from  the  allurements 
of  vice.  This  virtue  should  be  the  constant  prac- 
tice of  every  Mason,  as  he  is  thereby  taught  to 
avoid  excess,  or  the  contracting  of  any  licentious 
or  vicious  habit,  indulgence  in  which  might  lead 
him  to  disclose  some  of  those  valuable  secrets 
which  he  has  promised  to  conceal  and  never  re- 
veal, and  which  would  consequently  subject  him 
to  the  contempt  and  detestation  of  all  good 
Masons. 

FORTITUDE 

Is  that  noble  and  steady  purpose  of  the  mind 
whereby  we  are  enabled  to  undergo  any  pain, 
peril  or  danger,  when  prudentially  deemed  ex- 
pedient. This  virtue  is  equally  distant  from  rash- 
ness and  cowardice,  and,  like  temperance,  should 
be  deeply  impressed  upon  the  mind  of  every 


16 


Mason,  as  a safeguard  or  security  against  any 
illegal  attack  that  may  be  made,  by  force  or  other- 
wise, to  extort  from  him  any  of  those  secrets  with 
which  he  has  been  so  solemnly  intrusted.  This 
was  emblematically  represented  upon  his  first  ad- 
mission into  the  Lodge. 

PRUDENCE 

Teaches  us  to  regulate  our  lives  and  actions 
agreeably  to  the  dictates  of  reason,  and  is  that 
habit  by  which  we  wisely  judge  and  prudentially 
determine  on  all  things  relative  to  our  present  as 
well  as  to  our  future  happiness.  This  virtue 
should  be  the  peculiar  characteristic  of  every 
Mason,  not  only  for  the  government  of  his  con- 
duct while  in  the  Lodge,  but  also  when  abroad 
in  the  world ; it  should  be  particularly  attended  to 
in  all  strange  and  mixed  companies,  and  should 
constantly  remind  him  never  to  let  fall  the  least 
sign,  token  or  word  whereby  the  secrets  of  Ma- 
sonry might  be  unlawfully  obtained. 

JUSTICE 

Is  that  standard  of  right,  which  enables  us  to  ren- 
der to  every  man  his  just  due,  without  distinction. 
This  virtue  is  not  only  consistent  with  Divine  and 
human  laws,  but  is  the  very  cement  and  support 
of  civil  society;  and,  as  justice  in  a great  measure 
constitutes  the  really  good  man,  so  should  it  be 


17 


the  invariable  practice  of  every  Mason  never  to 
deviate  from  the  minutest  principles  thereof. 

* ^ 

CHARGE. 

Brother  : As  you  are  now  introduced 

into  the  first  principles  of  Masonry,  I congratu- 
late you  on  being  accepted  into  this  ancient  and 
honorable  institution — ancient,  as  having  existed 
from  time  immemorial ; and  honorable,  as  tend- 
ing in  every  particular,  so  to  render  all  men  who 
will  be  conformable  to  its  precepts.  No  institu- 
tion was  ever  established  on  a better  principle  or 
more  solid  foundation;  nor  were  ever  more  ex- 
cellent rules  and  useful  maxims  laid  down  than 
are  inculcated  in  the  several  Masonic  lectures. 
The  greatest  and  best  of  men  in  all  ages  have 
been  encouragers  and  promoters  of  the  art,  and 
have  never  deemed  it  derogatory  from  their  dig- 
nity to  level  themselves  with  the  Fraternity,  ex- 
tend their  privileges,  and  patronize  their  assem- 
blies. 

There  are  three  great  duties,  which,  as  a 
Mason,  you  are  charged  to  inculcate — to  God, 
your  neighbor  and  yourself.  To  God,  in  never 
mentioning  His  name  but  with  that  reverential 
awe  which  is  due  from  a creature  to  his  Creator ; 
to  implore  His  aid  in  all  your  laudable  under- 
takings, and  to  esteem  Him  as  your  chief  good; 
to  your  neighbor,  in  acting  upon  the  square,  and 


18 


doing  unto  him  as  you  would  wish  that  he  should 
do  unto  you ; and  to  yourself,  in  avoiding  all 
irregularity  and  intemperance,  which  may  impair 
your  faculties,  or  debase  the  dignity  of  your  pro- 
fession. A zealous  attachment  to  these  duties 
will  insure  public  and  private  esteem. 

In  the  state,  you  are  to  be  a quiet  and  peace- 
ful subject,  true  to  your  government,  and  just  to 
your  country;  you  are  not  to  countenance  dis- 
loyalty or  rebellion,  but  patiently  submit  to  legal 
authority,  and  conform  with  cheerfulness  to  the 
government  of  the  country  in  which  you  live. 

In  your  outward  demeanor  be  particularly 
careful  to  avoid  occasion  for  censure  or  reproach. 
Let  not  interest,  favor,  or  prejudice  bias  your 
integrity,  or  influence  you  to  be  guilty  of  a dis- 
honorable action.  Although  your  frequent  ap- 
pearance at  our  communications  is  earnestly 
solicited,  it  is  not  meant  that  Masonry  should 
interfere  with  your  necessary  vocations,  for  these 
are  on  no  account  to  be  neglected ; neither  are 
you  to  suffer  your  zeal  for  the  institution  to  lead 
you  into  argument  with  those  who,  through  ig- 
norance, m.ay  ridicule  it.  At  your  leisure  hours, 
that  you  may  improve  in  Masonic  knowledge, 
you  are  to  converse  with  well-informed  brethren, 
who  will  always  be  as  ready  to  give  as  you  will 
be  to  receive  instruction. 

Finally : Keep  inviolably  secret  the  mys- 

teries of  the  fraternity,  as  these  are  to  distinguish 


19 


you  from  the  rest  of  the  community,  and  mark 
your  consequence  among  Masons.  If,  in  the  cir- 
cle of  your  acquaintance,  you  find  a person  de- 
sirous of  being  initiated  into  Masonry,  be  partic- 
ularly careful  not  to  recommend  him  unless  you 
are  convinced  that  he  will  conform  to  our  rules ; 
that  the  honor,  glory  and  reputation  of  the  insti- 
tution may  be  firmly  established,  and  the  world 
at  large  convinced  of  its  good  effects. 


CHAPTER  II. 

SCRIPTURE. 

Thus  he  showed  me;  and,  behold,  the  Lord 
stood  upon  a wall  made  by  a plumb-line,  with 
a plumb-line  in  His  hand.  And  the  Lord  said 
unto  me,  Amos,  what  seest  thou?  And  I said, 
a plumb-line.  Then  said  the  Lord,  behold,  I will 
set  a plumb-line  in  the  midst  of  my  people  Israel : 
I will  not  again  pass  by  them  any  more. — Amos, 
vii : 7-8. 

* 

PLUMB,  SQUARE  AND  LEVEL. 

The  plumb  is  an  instrument  made  use  of  by 
operative  Masons,  to  try  perpendiculars;  the 
square,  to  square  their  work ; and  the  level,  to 
test  horizontals  ; but  we,  as  Free  and  Accepted 


20 


Ad^asons,  are  taught  to  make  use  of  them  for 
more  noble  and  glorious  purposes ; the  plumb  ad- 
monishes us  to  walk  uprightly  in  our  several  sta- 
tions before  God  and  man,  squaring  our  actions 
by  the  square  of  virtue,  and  remembering  that  we 
are  traveling  upon  the  level  of  time  to  that  ''un- 
discovered country  from  whose  bourne  no  trav- 
eler returns/’ 

* 

* * 

OPERATIVE  MASONRY. 

By  operative  Masonry  we  allude  to  a proper 
application  of  the  useful  rules  of  architecture, 
whereby  a structure  will  derive  figure,  strength, 
and  beauty,  and  whence  will  result  a due  pro- 
portion and  a just  correspondence  in  all  its  parts. 
It  furnishes  us  with  dwellings  and  convenient 
shelters  from  the  vicissitudes  and  inclemencies 
of  the  seasons ; and,  while  it  displays  the  effects 
of  human  wisdom,  as  well  in  the  choice  as  in  the 
arrangement  of  the  sundry  materials  of  which  an 
edifice  is  composed,  it  demonstrates  that  a fund 
of  science  and  industry  is  implanted  in  man  for 
the  best,  most  salutary,  and  beneficent  purposes. 

SPECULATIVE  MASONRY. 

By  speculative  Masonry  we  learn  to  subdue 
the  passions,  act  upon  the  square,  keep  a tongue 
of  good  report,  maintain  secrecy,  and  practice 
charity.  It  is  so  far  interwoven  with  religion  as 


21 


to  lay  us  under  obligations  to  pay  that  rational 
homage  to  the  Deity,  which  at  once  constitutes 
our  duty  and  our  happiness.  It  leads  the  con- 
templative to  view  with  reverence  and  admiration 
the  glorious  works  of  the  creation,  and  inspires 
him  with  the  most  exalted  ideas  of  the  perfec- 
tions of  his  Divine  Creator. 

Hi  >!^  * * * * 

In  six  days  God  created  the  heavens  and  the 
earth,  and  rested  upon  the  seventh  day ; the 
seventh,  therefore,  our  ancient  brethren  conse- 
crated as  a day  of  rest  from  their  labors,  thereby 
enjoying  frequent  opportunities  to  contemplate 
the  glorious  works  of  the  creation,  and  to  adore 
their  great  Creator. 

He  Hi 

THE  GLOBES 

Are  two  artificial  spherical  bodies,  on  the  convex 
surface  of  which  are  represented  the  countries, 
seas  and  various  parts  of  the  earth,  the  face  of 
the  Heavens,  the  planetary  revolutions,  and  other 
particulars. 

The  sphere,  with  the  parts  of  the  earth  de- 
lineated on  its  surface,  is  called  the  terrestrial 
globe,  and  that  with  the  constellations  and  other 
heavenly  bodies,  the  celestial  globe. 

Their  principal  use,  besides  serving  as  maps 
to  distinguish  the  outward  parts  of  the  earth, 
and  the  situation  of  the  fixed  stars,  is  to  illus- 


trate  and  explain  the  phenomena  arising  from 
the  anmial  revolution  and  the  diurnal  rotation  of 
the  earth  around  its  own  axis. 

They  are  the  noblest  instruments  for  im- 
proving the  mind,  and  giving  it  the  most  distinct 
idea  of  any  problem  or  proposition,  as  well  as 
enabling  it  to  solve  the  same. 

Contemplating  these  bodies,  we  are  inspired 
with  a due  reverence  for  the  Deity  and  His 
works  and  are  induced  to  encourage  the  studies 
of  astronomy,  geography,  navigation  and  the 
arts  dependent  on  them,  by  which  society  has 
been  so  much  benefited. 

* 

ORDER  IN  ARCHITECTURE. 

By  order  in  architecture  is  meant  a system 
of  all  the  members,  proportions,  and  ornaments 
of  columns  and  pilasters ; or,  it  is  a regular  ar- 
rangement of  the  projecting  parts  of  a building, 
which,  united  with  those  of  a column,  form  a 
beautiful,  perfect  and  complete  whole. 

* 

ITS  ANTIQUITY. 

From  the  first  formation  of  society,  order  in 
architecture  may  be  traced.  When  the  rigor  of 
seasons  obliged  men  to  contrive  shelter  from  the 
inclemency  of  the  weather,  we  learn  that  they 
first  planted  trees  on  end,  and  then  laid  others 


23 


across  to  support  a covering.  The  bands  which 
connected  those  trees  at  the  top  and  bottom  were 
said  to  have  given  rise  to  the  idea  of  the  base  and 
capital  of  pillars ; and  from  this  simple  hint 
originally  proceeded  the  more  improved  art  of 
architecture. 

The  five  orders  are  thus  classed:  The  Tus- 
can, Doric,  Ionic,  Corinthian,  and  Composite, 
THE  TUSCAN 

Is  the  most  simple  and  solid  of  the  five  orders. 
It  was  invented  in  Tuscany,  whence  it  derives  its 
name.  Its  column  is  seven  diameters  high;  and 
its  capital,  base  and  entablature  have  but  few 
moldings.  The  simplicity  of  the  construction  of 
this  column  renders  it  eligible  where  ornament 
would  be  superfluous. 

THE  DORIC, 

Which  is  plain  and  natural,  is  the  most  ancient, 
and  was  invented  by  the  Greeks.  Its  column  is 
eight  diameters  high,  and  has  seldom  any  orna- 
ments on  base  or  capital  except  moldings ; though 
the  frieze  is  distinguished  by  triglyphs  and  me- 
tropese,  and  triglyphs  compose  the  ornaments  of 
the  frieze.  The  solid  composition  of  this  order 
gives  it  a preference  in  structures  where  strength 
and  noble  simplicity  are  chiefly  required. 

The  Doric  is  the  best  proportioned  of  all  the 
orders ; the  several  parts  of  which  it  is  com- 
posed are  founded  on  the  natural  position  of  solid 
bodies.  In  its  first  invention  it  was  more  simple 


24 


than  in  its  present  state.  In  after  times,  when  it 
began  to  be  adorned,  it  gained  the  name  of  Doric, 
for  when  it  was  constructed  in  its  primitive  and 
simple  form,  the  name  of  Tuscan  was  conferred 
on  it.  Hence  the  Tuscan  precedes  the  Doric  in 
rank,  on  account  of  its  resemblance  to  that  pillar 
in  its  original  state. 

THE  IONIC 

Bears  a kind  of  mean  proportion  between  the 
more  solid  and  delicate  orders.  Its  column  is 
nine  diameters  high;  its  capital  is  adorned  with 
volutes,  and  its  cornice  has  dentals.  There  is 
both  delicacy  and  ingenuity  displayed  in  this 
pillar,  the  invention  of  which  is  attributed  to  the 
lonians,  as  the  famous  Temple  of  I >iana  at 
Ephesus  was  of  this  order.  It  is  said  to  have 
been  formed  after  the  model  of  an  agreeable 
young  woman,  of  an  elegant  shape,  dressed  in  her 
hair,  as  a contrast  to  the  Doric  order,  which  was 
formed  after  that  of  a strong,  robust  man. 

TEIE  CORINTHIAN, 

The  richest  of  the  five  orders,  is  deemed  a mas- 
terpiece of  art.  Its  column  is  ten  diameters  high, 
and  its  capital  is  adorned  with  two  rows  of 
leaves  and  eight  volutes,  which  sustain  the  aba- 
cus. The  frieze  is  ornamented  with  curious  de- 
vices, the  cornice  with  dentals  and  modillions. 

This  order  is  used  in  stately  and  superb 
structures.  It  was  invented  at  Corinth,  by  Cal- 
limachus, who  is  said  to  have  taken  the  hint  of 


25 


the  capital  of  this  pillar  from  the  following  re- 
markable circumstance  : Accidentally  passing  by 
the  tomb  of  a young  lady,  lie  perceived  a basket 
of  toys,  covered  with  a tile,  placed  over  an  acan- 
thus root,  having  been  left  there  by  her  nurse. 
As  the  branches  grew'  up,  they  encompassed  the 
basket,  till,  arriving  at  the  tile,  they  met  with 
an  obstruction,  and  bent  downward.  Callimachus, 
struck  with  the  object,  set  about  imitating  the 
figure;  the  base  of  the  capital  he  made  to  repre- 
sent the  basket ; the  abacus  the  tile,  and  the  vol- 
utes the  bending  leaves. 

THE  COMPOSITE 

Is  compounded  of  the  other  orders,  and  was 
contrived  by  the  Romans.  Its  capital  has  the  two 
rows  of  leaves  of  the  Corinthian,  and  the  volutes 
of  the  Ionic.  Its  column  has  the  quarter-round, 
as  the  Tuscan  and  Doric  order;  is  ten  diameters 
high,  and  its  cornice  has  dentals  or  simple  mo- 
dillions.  This  pillar  is  generally  found  in  build- 
ings where  strength,  elegance  and  beauty  are 
displayed. 

* 

5k  5k 

THE  INVENTION  OF  ORDER  IN 
ARCHITECTURE. 

The  ancient  and  original  orders  of  architec- 
ture, revered  by  Masons,  are  no  more  than  three, 
the  Doric,  Ionic,  and  Corinthian,  which  were 
invented  by  the  Greeks.  To  these  the  Romans 


26 


have  added  two : the  Tuscan,  which  they  made 
plainer  than  the  Doric  and  the  Composite,  which 
was  more  ornamental,  if  not  more  beautiful,  than 
the  Corinthian.  The  first  three  orders  alone, 
however,  show  invention  and  particular  charac- 
ter, and  essentially  differ  from  each  other;  the 
two  others  have  nothing  but  what  is  borrowed, 
and  differ  only  accidentally;  the  Tuscan  is  the 
Doric  in  its  earliest  state;  and  the  Composite  is 
the  Corinthian,  enriched  with  the  Ionic.  To  the 
Greeks,  therefore,  and  not  to  the  Romans,  we  are 
indebted  for  what  is  great,  judicious  and  distinct 
in  architecture. 


* * 

THE  FIVE  SENSES  OF  HUMAN  NATURE 
Are  hearing,  seeing,  feeling,  smelling  and  tasting. 
HEARING 

Is  that  sense  by  which  we  distinguish  sounds, 
and  are  capable  of  enjoying  all  the  agreeable 
charms  of  music.  By  it  we  are  enabled  to  enjoy 
the  pleasures  of  society,  and  reciprocally  to  com- 
municate to  each  other  our  thoughts  and  inten- 
tions, our  purposes  and  desires ; while  thus  our 
reason  is  capable  gf  exerting  its  utmost  power 
and  energy. 

The  wise  and  beneficent  Author  of  Nature 
intended  by  the  formation  of  this  sense,  that  we 
should  be  social  creatures  and  receive  the  greatest 


27 


and  most  important  part  of  our  knowledge  by  the 
information  of  others.  For  these  purposes  we 
are  endowed  with  hearing,  that  by  a proper  exer- 
tion of  our  rational  powers,  our  happiness  may  be 
complete. 

SEEING 

Is  that  sense  by  which  we  distinguish  objects, 
and  in  an  instant  of  time,  without  change  of 
place  or  situation,  view  armies  in  battle  array, 
figures  of  the  most  stately  structures,  and  all  the 
agreeable  variety  displayed  in  the  landscape  of 
nature.  By  this  sense  we  find  our  way  in  the 
pathless  ocean,  traverse  the  globe  of  earth,  de- 
termine its  figures  and  dimensions  and  delineate 
any  region  or  quarter  of  it.  By  it  we  measure 
the  planetary  orbs,  and  make  new  discoveries  in 
the  sphere  of  the  fixed  stars.  Nay,  more;  by  it 
we  perceive  the  tempers  and  dispositions,  the 
passions  and  affections  of  our  fellow-creatures, 
when  they  wish  most  to  conceal  them;  so  that, 
though  the  tongue  may  be  taught  to  lie  and  dis- 
semble, the  countenance  would  display  hypocrisy 
to  the  discerning  eye.  In  fine,  the  rays  of  light, 
which  administer  to  this  sense,  are  the  most 
astonishing  parts  of  the  animated  creation,  and 
render  the  eye  a peculiar  object  of  admiration. 

Of  all  the  faculties,  sight  is  the  noblest.  The 
structure  of  the  eye,  and  its  appurtenances,  evin- 
ces the  admirable  contrivance  of  nature  for  per- 
forming all  its  various  external  and  internal  mo- 


28 


tions;  while  the  variety  displayed  in  the  eyes  of 
dififerent  animals,  suited  to  their  several  ways  of 
life,  clearly  demonstrates  this  organ  to  be  the 
masterpiece  of  nature’s  work. 

FEELING 

Is  that  sense  by  which  we  distinguish  the  differ- 
ent qualities  of  bodies ; such  as  heat  and  cold, 
hardness  and  softness,  roughness  and  smooth- 
ness, figure,  solidity,  motion  and  extension. 

These  three  senses.  Hearing,  Seeing,  and 
Feeling,  are  deemed  peculiarly  essential  among 
Masons. 

SMELLING 

Is  that  sense  by  which  we  distinguish  odors,  the 
various  kinds  of  which  convey  different  impres- 
sions to  the  mind.  Animal  and  vegetable  bodies, 
and,  indeed,  most  other  bodies,  while  exposed  to 
the  air,  continually  send  forth  effluvia  of  vast 
subtilty,  as  well  in  the  state  of  life  and  growth, 
as  in  the  state  of  fermentation  and  putrefaction. 
These  effluvia,  being  drawn  into  the  nostrils 
along  with  the  air,  are  the  means  by  which  all 
bodies  are  smelled.  Hence  it  is  evident  that  there 
is  a manifest  appearance  of  design  in  the  great 
Creator’s  having  planted  the  organ  of  smell  in  the 
inside  of  that  canal  through  which  the  air  con- 
tinually passes  in  respiration. 

TASTING 

Enables  us  to  make  a proper  distinction  in  the 
choice  of  our  food.  The  organ  of  this  sense 


29 


guards  the  entrance  of  the  alimentary  canal,  as 
that  of  smelling  guards  the  entrance  to  the  canal 
for  respiration.  From  the  situation  of  both  these 
organs  it  is  plain  that  they  were  intended  by 
Nature  to  distinguish  wholesome  food  from  that 
which  is  nauseous.  Everything  that  enters  into 
the  stomach  must  undergo  the  scrutiny  of  tast- 
ing ; and  by  it  we  are  capable  of  discerning  the 
changes  which  the  same  body  undergoes  in  the 
different  compositions  of  art,  cookery,  chemistry, 
pharmacy,  etc. 

Smelling  and  tasting  are  inseparably  con- 
nected, and  it  is  by  the  unnatural  kind  of  life 
men  commonly  lead  in  society,  that  these  senses 
are  rendered  less  fit  to  perform  their  natural 
offices. 

On  the  mind  all  our  knowledge  must  de- 
pend ; what,  therefore,  can  be  a more  proper  sub- 
ject for  the  investigation  of  Masons?  By  ana- 
tomical dissection  and  observation  we  become  ac- 
quainted with  the  body ; but  it  is  by  the  anatomy 
of  the  mind  alone  we  discover  its  power  and  prin- 
ciples. 

To  sum  up  the  whole  of  this  transcendent 
measure  of  God’s  bounty  to  man,  we  shall  add, 
that  memory,  imagination,  taste,  reasoning,  moral 
perception,  and  all  the  active  powers  of  the  soul, 
present  a vast  and  boundless  field  for  philosophi- 
cal disquisition,  which  far  exceeds  human  in- 
quiry, and  are  peculiar  mysteries,  known  only  to 


80 


nature  and  to  nature’s  God,  to  whom  we  and  all 
are  indebted  for  creation,  preservation,  and  every 
blessing  we  enjoy. 

* * 

THE  SEVEN  LIBERAL  ARTS  AND 
SCIENCES. 

The  seven  liberal  arts  and  sciences  are  Gram- 
mar, Rhetoric,  Logic,  Arithmetic,  Geometry, 
Music  and  Astronomy, 

GRAMMAR 

Teaches  the  proper  arrangement  of  words  ac- 
cording to  the  idiom  or  dialect  of  any  particular 
people;  and  that  excellency  of  pronunciation 
which  enables  us  to  speak  or  write  a language 
with  accuracy,  agreeably  to  reason  and  correct 
usage. 

RHETORIC 

Teaches  us  to  speak  copiously  and  fluently  on 
any  subject,  not  merely  with  propriety,  but  with 
all  the  advantages  of  force  and  elegance ; wisely 
contriving  to  captivate  the  hearer  by  strength  of 
argument  and  beauty  of  expression,  whether  it 
be  to  entreat  or  exhort,  to  admonish  or  applaud. 

LOGIC 

Teaches  us  to  guide  our  reason  discretionally  in 
the  general  knowledge  of  things,  and  directs  our 
inquiries  after  truth.  It  consists  of  a regular 
train  of  argument,  whence  we  infer,  deduce,  and 


31 


conclude,  according  to  certain  premises  laid 
down,  admitted  or  granted;  and  in  it  are  em- 
ployed the  faculties  of  conceiving,  judging,  rea- 
soning and  disposing;  all  of  which  are  naturally 
led  on  from  one  gradation  to  another,  till  the 
point  in  question  is  finally  determined. 

ARITHMETIC 

Teaches  the  powers  and  properties  of  numbers, 
which  is  variously  affected,  by  letters,  tables,  fig- 
ures, and  instruments.  By  this  art,  reasons  and 
demonstrations  are  given  for  finding  out  any  cer- 
tain number,  whose  relation  or  affinity  to  another 
is  already  known  or  discovered. 

GEOMETRY 

Treats  of  the  powers  and  properties  of  magni- 
tudes in  general,  where  length,  breadth,  and 
thickness  are  considered  from  a point  to  a linCj 
from  a line  to  a superficies,  and  from  a supreficies 
to  a solid. 

A point  is  a dimensionless  figure,  or  an  in- 
visible part  of  space. 

A line  is  a point  continued,  and  a figure  of 
one  capacity,  namely,  length. 

A superficies  is  a figure  of  two  dimensions, 
namely,  length  and  breadth. 

A solid  is  a figure  of  three  dimensions, 
namely,  length,  breadth  and  thickness. 

By  this  science,  the  architect  is  enabled  to 
construct  his  plans  and  execute  his  designs;  the 
general  to  arrange  his  soldiers ; the  engineer  to 


mark  out  ground  for  encampments;  the  geog- 
rapher to  give  us  the  dimensions  of  the  world, 
and  all  things  therein  contained ; to  delineate  the 
extent  of  seas,  and  specify  the  divisions  of  em- 
pires, kingdoms,  and  provinces;  by  it,  also  the 
astronomer  is  enabled  to  make  his  observations, 
and  to  fix  the  duration  of  times  and  seasons, 
years  and  cycles.  In  fine,  geometry  is  the  foun- 
dation of  architecture,  and  the  root  of  mathe- 
matics. 

MUSIC 

Teaches  the  art  of  making  concords,  so  as  to 
compose  delightful  harmony,  by  a mathematical 
and  proportional  arrangement  of  acute,  grave 
and  mixed  sounds.  This  art,  by  a series  of  ex- 
periments, is  reduced  to  a demonstrative  science, 
with  respect  to  tones,  and  the  intervals  of  sound. 
It  inquires  into  the  nature  of  concords  and  dis- 
cords, and  enables  us  to  find  out  the  proportion 
between  them  by  numbers. 

ASTRONOMY 

Is  that  Divine  art  by  which  we  are  taught  to 
read  the  wisdom,  strength  and  beauty  of  the 
Almighty  Creator,  in  those  sacred  pages,  the 
celestial  hemisphere.  Assisted  by  astronomy,  we 
can  observe  the  motions,  measure  the  distances, 
comprehend  the  magnitudes,  and  calculate  the 
periods  and  eclipses  of  the  heavenly  bodies.  By 
it  we  learn  the  use  of  the  globes,  the  system  of 
the  world,  and  the  preliminary  law  of  nature. 


33 


While  we  are  employed  in  the  study  of  this 
science,  we  must  perceive  unparalleled  instances 
of  wisdom  and  goodness,  and  through  the  whole 
creation  trace  the  glorious  Author  by  His  works. 

Geometry,  the  first  and  noblest  of  sciences, 
is  the  basis  on  which  the  superstructure  of  Ma- 
sonry is  erected.  By  geometry  we  may  trace 
nature,  through  her  various  windings,  to  her  most 
concealed  recesses.  By  it  we  discover  the  power, 
the  wisdom,  and  the  goodness  of  the  Grand 
Artificer  of  the  Universe,  and  view  with  delight 
the  proportions  which  connect  this  vast  universe. 
By  it  we  discover  how  the  planets  move  in  their 
different  orbits  and  demonstrate  their  various 
revolutions.  By  it  we  account  for  the  return  of 
seasons,  and  the  variety  of  scenes  which  each 
season  displays  to  the  discerning  eye.  Number- 
less worlds  are  around  us,  all  formed  by  the  same 
Divine  Architect,  which  roll  through  the  vast  ex- 
panse, and  are  all  conducted  by  the  same  unerr- 
ing law  of  nature. 

A survey  of  nature,  and  the  observation  of 
her  beautiful  proportions,  first  determined  man 
to  imitate  the  Divine  plan,  and  study  symmetry 
and  order.  This  gave  rise  to  societies,  and  birth 
to  every  useful  art.  The  architect  began  to  de- 
sign; and  the  plans  which  he  laid  down  being 
improved  by  experience  and  time,  have  produced 
works  which  are  the  admiration  of  every  age. 


34 


The  lapse  of  time,  the  ruthless  hand  of  ignor- 
ance, and  the  devastations  of  war,  have  laid 
waste  and  destroyed  many  valuable  monuments 
of  antiquity  on  which  the  utmost  exertions  of 
human  genius  have  been  employed.  Even  the 
Temple  of  Solomon,  so  spacious  and  magnificent, 
and  constructed  by  the  most  celebrated  artists, 
escaped  not  the  unsparing  ravages  of  barbarous 
force.  Freemasonry,  notwithstanding,  has  still 
survived.  The  attentive  ear  receives  the  sound 
from  the  instructive  tongue  and  the  mysteries  of 
Masonry  are  safely  lodged  in  the  repository  of 
faithful  breasts. 

Tools  and  implements  of  architecture  are 
selected  by  the  fraternity  to  imprint  on  the  mem- 
ory wise  and  serious  truths;  and  thus,  through 
a succession  of  ages,  are  transmitted,  unimpaired, 
the  excellent  tenets  of  our  institution. 

* 

^ * 

CHARGE. 

Brother  : Being  advanced  to  the  second 

degree  of  Masonry,  we  congratulate  you  on  your 
preferment.  The  internal,  and  not  the  external 
qualifications  of  a man  are  what  Masonry  re- 
gards. As  you  increase  in  knowledge,  you  will 
improve  in  social  intercourse. 

It  is  unnecessary  to  recapitulate  the  duties, 
which,  as  a Mason,  you  are  bound  to  discharge, 
or  to  enlarge  on  the  necessity  of  a strict  adher- 


35 


ence  to  them ; as  your  own  experience  must  have 
established  their  value. 

Our  laws  and  regulations  you  are  strenu- 
ously to  support,  and  always  be  ready  to  assist 
in  seeing  them  duly  executed.  You  are  not  to 
palliate  or  aggregate  the  offenses  of  your  breth- 
ren; but  in  the  decision  of  every  trespass  against 
our  rules  you  are  to  judge  with  candor,  admonish 
with  friendship,  and  reprehend  with  justice. 

The  study  of  the  liberal  arts,  that  valuable 
branch  of  education  which  tends  so  effectually  to 
polish  and  adorn  the  mind,  is  earnestly  recom- 
mended to  your  consideration,  especially  the 
science  of  geometry,  which  is  established  as  the 
basis  of  our  art.  Geometry,  or  Masonry,  origi- 
nally synonymous  terms,  being  of  a Divine  and 
moral  nature,  is  enriched  with  the  most  useful 
knowledge : while  it  proves  the  wonderful  prop- 
erties of  nature,  it  demonstrates  the  more  im- 
portant truths  of  morality. 

Your  past  behavior  and  regular  deportment 
have  merited  the  honor  which  we  have  now  con- 
ferred, and  in  your  new  character  it  is  expected 
that  you  will  conform  to  the  principles  of  Ma- 
sonry by  steadily  persevering  in  the  practice  of 
every  commendable  virtue. 

Such  is  the  nature  of  your  engagements  as 
a Fellowcraft,  and  to  these  duties  you  are  bound 
by  the  most  sacred  ties. 


36 


CHAPTER  III. 

^ Jjc 

SCRIPTURE. 

Remember  now  thy  Creator  in  the  days  of 
thy  youth,  while  the  evil  days  come  not,  nor  the 
years  draw  nigh,  when  thou  shalt  say,  I have  no 
pleasure  in  them.  While  the  sun,  or  the  light,  or 
the  moon,  or  the  stars  be  not  darkened  nor  the 
clouds  return  after  the  rain;  in  the  day  when 
the  keepers  of  the  house  shall  tremble,  and  the 
strong  men  shall  bow  themselves,  and  the  grind- 
ers shall  cease  because  they  are  few,  and  those 
that  look  out  of  the  windows  be  darkened,  and 
the  doors  shall  be  shut  in  the  streets,  when  the 
sound  of  the  grinding  is  low ; and  he  shall  rise  up 
at  the  voice  of  the  bird,  and  all  the  daughters  of 
music  shall  be  brought  low.  Also  when  they 
shall  be  afraid  of  that  which  is  high,  and  fears 
shall  be  in  the  way,  and  the  almond  trees  shall 
flourish,  and  the  grasshopper  shall  be  a burden, 
and  desire  shall  fail;  because  man  goeth  to  his 
long  home,  and  the  mourners  go  about  the 
streets ; or  ever  the  silver  cord  be  loosed,  or  the 
golden  bowl  be  broken,  or  the  pitcher  be  broken 
at  the  fountain,  or  the  wheel  broken  at  the  cis- 
tern. Then  shall  the  dust  return  to  the  earth  as 
it  was,  and  the  spirit  shall  return  unto  God  who 
gave  it. — Eccles,  xii : 1-7. 


37 


* 

THE  TROWEL. 

The  TROWEL  is  an  instrument  made  use  of  by 
operative  Masons  to  spread  the  cement  which 
unites  a building  into  one  common  mass ; but  we 
as  Free  and  Accepted  Masons,  are  taught  to  make 
use  of  it  for  the  more  noble  and  glorious  purpose 
of  spreading  the  cement  of  brotherly  love  and  af- 
fection; that  cement  which  unites  us  into  one 
sacred  band,  or  society  of  friends  and  brothers, 
among  whom  no  contention  should  ever  exist, 
but  that  noble  contention,  or  rather  emulation,  of 
who  best  can  work  or  best  agree. 

* lie 

FUNERAL  DIRGE. 

Tune — Pleyel's  Hymn. 

Solemn  strikes  the  funeral  chime, 

Notes  of  our  departing  time; 

As  we  journey  here  beloWj 
Through  a pilgrimage  of  woe. 

Mortals,  now  indulge  a tear. 

For  mortality  is  here; 

See  how  wide  her  trophies  wave 
O’er  the  slumbers  of  the  grave. 

Here  another  guest  we  bring ! 

Seraphs  of  celestial  wing, 

To  our  funeral  altar  come, 

Waft  our  friend  and  brother  home. 

Lord  of  all  below,  above. 

Fill  our  souls  with  Truth  and  Love; 

As  dissolves  our  earthly  tie. 

Take  us  to  Thy  Lodge  on  high! 


38 


* ^ 

A PRAYER, 

At  Raising  a Brother. 

Thou,  O God ! knowest  our  down-sitting 
and  our  up-rising  and  understandest  our  thoughts 
afar  off.  Shield  and  defend  us  from  the  evil  in- 
tentions of  our  enemies,  and  support  us  under  the 
trials  and  afflictions  we  are  destined  to  endure 
while  traveling  through  this  vale  of  tears.  Man 
that  is  born  of  a woman  is  of  few  days  and  full 
of  trouble.  He  cometh  forth  as  a flower  and  is 
cut  down;  he  fleeth  also  as  a shadow  and  con- 
tinued not.  Seeing  his  days  are  determined,  the 
number  of  his  months  are  with  thee ; thou  hast  ap- 
pointed his  bounds  that  he  cannot  pass ; turn  from 
him  that  he  may  rest  till  he  shall  accomplish  his 
day.  For  there  is  hope  of  a tree  if  it  be  cut  down 
that  it  will  sprout  again,  and  that  the  tender 
branch  thereof  will  not  cease.  But  man  dieth, 
and  wasted  away ; yea,  man  giveth  up  the  ghost, 
and  where  is  he?  As  the  waters  fail  from  the  sea, 
and  the  flood  decayed  and  dried  up,  so  man 
lieth  down,  and  riseth  not  till  the  heavens  shall  be 
no  more.  Yet,  O Lord!  have  compassion  on  the 
children  of  Thy  creation,  administer  them  com- 
fort in  time  of  trouble,  and  save  them  with  an 
everlasting  salvation.  Amen.  So  mote  it  be. 


39 


* 

THE  WORKMEN 

Employed  in  building  the  T emple 

Were  all  classed  and  arranged  in  such  a manner 
by  the  wisdom  of  Solomon,  that  neither  envy, 
discord  nor  confusion  were  suffered  to  inter- 
rupt that  universal  peace  and  tranquility  which 
pervaded  the  world  at  this  important  period. 

* * 

THE  THREE  STEPS 

Usually  delineated  upon  the  Master’s  carpet  are 
emblematic  of  the  three  principal  stages  of  hu- 
man life,  viz.,  youth,  manhood  and  age.  In 
youth,  as  Entered  Apprentices,  we  ought  indus- 
triously to  occupy  our  minds  in  the  attainment  of 
useful  knowledge;  in  manhood,  as  Fellowcrafts, 
we  should  apply  our  knowledge  to  the  discharge 
of  our  revSpective  duties  to  God,  our  neighbors, 
and  ourselves ; so  that  in  age,  as  Master  Masons, 
we  may  enjoy  the  happy  reflections  consequent 
upon  a well-spent  life,  and  die  in  the  hope  of  a 
glorious  immortality. 

THE  POT  OF  INCENSE 

Is  an  emblem  of  a pure  heart,  which  is  always  an 
acceptable  sacrifice  to  the  Deity ; and,  as  this 
glows  with  fervent  heat,  so  should  our  hearts 


40 


continually  glow  with  gratitude  to  the  great  and 
beneficent  Author  of  our  existence,  for  the  many 
blessings  and  comforts  we  enjoy. 

THE  BEE  HIVE 

Is  an  emblem  of  industry,  and  recommends  the 
practice  of  that  virtue  to  all  created  beings,  from 
the  highest  seraph  in  heaven  to  the  lowest  reptile 
of  the  dust.  It  teaches  us  that  as  we  came  into 
the  world  rational  and  intelligent  beings,  so  we 
should  ever  be  industrious  ones;  never  sitting 
down  contented  while  our  fellow-creatures 
around  us  are  in  want,  when  it  is  in  our  power  to 
relieve  them,  without  inconvenience  to  ourselves. 

When  we  take  a survey  of  nature,  we  view 
man  in  his  infancy,  more  helpless  and  indigent 
than  the  brute  creation;  he  lies  languishing  for 
days,  months,  and  years,  totally  incapable  of  pro- 
viding sustenance  for  himself,  of  guarding 
against  the  attacks  of  the  wild  beasts  of  the  field, 
or  sheltering  himself  from  the  inclemencies  of  the 
weather. 

It  might  have  pleased  the  great  Creator  of 
heaven  and  earth  to  have  made  man  independent 
of  all  other  beings ; but,  as  dependence  is  one 
of  the  strongest  bonds  of  society,  mankind  were 
made  dependent  on  one  another  for  protection 
and  security,  as  they  thereby  enjoy  better  oppor- 
tunities for  fulfilling  the  duties  of  reciprocal  love 
and  friendship.  Thus  was  man  formed  for  social 
and  active  life,  the  noblest  part  of  the  work  of 


41 


God ; and  he  who  will  so  demean  himself  as  not 
to  be  endeavoring  to  add  to  the  common  stock  of 
knowledge  and  understanding,  may  be  deemed  a 
drone  in  the  hive  of  nature,  a useless  member  of 
society,  and  unworthy  of  our  protection  as  Ma- 
sons. 

THE  BOOK  OF  CONSTITUTIONS, 
Guarded  by  the  Tiler's  Sword, 

Reminds  us  that  we  should  be  ever  watchful  and 
guarded  in  our  thoughts,  words  and  actions, 
particularly  when  before  the  enemies  of  Ma- 
sonry; ever  bearing  in  remembrance  those  truly 
Masonic  virtues,  silence  and  circumspection, 

THE  SWORD, 

Pointing  to  a Naked  Heart, 
Demonstrates  that  justice  will  sooner  or  later 
overtake  us ; and,  although  our  thoughts,  words 
and  actions  may  be  hidden  from  the  eyes  of  man, 
yet  that 

ALL-SEEING  EYE 

Whom  the  Sun,  Moon  and  Stars  obey,  and 
under  whose  watchful  care  even  comets  perform 
their  stupendous  revolutions,  pervades  the  inmost 
recesses  of  the  human  heart,  and  will  reward  us 
according  to  our  merits. 

THE  ANCHOR  AND  ARK 
Are  emblems  of  a well-grounded  hope  and  a well- 
spent  life.  They  are  emblematic  of  that  Divine 
ark  which  safely  bears  us  over  this  tempestuous 


42 


sea  of  troubles,  and  that  anchor  which  shall  safely 
moor  us  in  a peaceful  harbor,  where  the  wicked 
cease  from  troubling,  and  the  weary  shall  find 
rest. 

THE  FORTY-SEVENTH  PROBLEM  OF 
EUCLID 

Was  an  invention  of  our  ancient  friend  and 
brother,  the  great  Pythagoras,  who,  in  his  travels 
through  Asia,  Africa  and  Europe,  was  initiated 
into  several  orders  of  priesthood,  and  raised  to 
the  sublime  degree  of  a Master  Mason.  This 
wise  philosopher  enriched  his  mind  abundantly 
in  a general  knowledge  of  things,  and  more  es- 
pecially in  geometry,  or  Masonry.  On  this  sub- 
ject he  drew  out  many  problems  and  theorems; 
and  among  the  most  distinguished  he  erected  this, 
which  in  the  joy  of  his  heart  he  called  Eureka, 
signifying  in  the  Greek  language,  / have  found 
it;  and  upon  the  discovery  of  which  he  is  said  to 
have  sacrificed  a hectacomb,  which  was  a hun- 
dred head  of  oxen.  It  teaches  Masons  to  be  gen- 
eral lovers  of  the  art  and  sciences. 

THE  HOUR  GLASS 

Is  an  emblem  of  human  life.  Behold ! how 
swiftly  the  sands  run,  and  how  rapidly  our  lives 
are  drawing  to  a close!  We  can  not  without 
astonishment,  behold  the  little  particles  which 
are  contained  in  this  machine,  how  they  pass 
away  almost  imperceptibly,  and  yet,  to  our  sur- 
prise, in  a short  space  of  an  hour,  they  are  all 


43 


exhausted.  Thus  wastes  man.  To-day  he  puts 
forth  the  tender  leaves  of  hope ; to-morrow  blos- 
soms, and  bears  his  blushing  honors  thick  upon 
him  ; the  next  day  comes  a frost,  which  nips  the 
shoot,  and  when  he  thinks  his  greatness  is  still 
aspiring,  he  falls  like  autumn  leaves,  to  enrich 
our  mother  earth. 

THE  SCYTHE 

Is  an  emblem  of  Time,  which  cuts  the  brittle 
thread  of  life,  and  launches  us  into  eternity.  Be- 
hold! what  havoc  the  scythe  of  Time  makes 
among  the  human  race ! If  we  should  escape  the 
numerous  evils  incident  to  childhood  and  youth, 
and  with  health  and  vigor  arrive  at  the  years  of 
manhood,  yet  withal  we  must  soon  be  cut  down 
by  the  all-devouring  scythe  of  Time,  and  be 
gathered  into  the  land  where  our  fathers  hav: 
gone  before  us. 

* 

* * 

Now,  brethren,  let  us  see  to  it,  and  so  regu- 
late our  lives  by  the  plumb  line  of  justice,  ever 
squaring  our  actions  by  the  square  of  virtue,  that 
when  the  Grand  Warden  of  Heaven  shall  call 
for  us  we  may  be  found  ready.  Let  us  cultivate 
assiduously  the  noble  tenets  of  our  profession. 
Brotherly  Love,  Relief  and  Truth;  and  from  the 
Square  learn  morality;  from  the  Level  equality; 
and  from  the  Plumb  rectitude  of  life.  Let  us 


44 


imitate,  in  all  his  varied  perfection,  him  who, 

^ ^ ^ Hi  ❖ Jji 

Let  us  emulate  his  amiable  and  virtuous  con- 
duct, his  unfeigned  piety  to  his  God,  and  his  in- 
flexible fldelity  to  his  trust.  As  the  evergreen 
which  bloomed  at  the  head  of  his  grave  desig- 
nated the  place  of  his  interment,  so  may  virtue, 
by  its  ever-blooming  loveliness,  designate  us  as 
Free  and  Accepted  Masons. 

With  the  Trowel  spread  liberally  the  cement 
of  brotherly  love  and  affection.  Circumscribed 
by  the  Compasses,  let  us  ponder  well  our  words 
and  actions,  and  let  all  the  energies  of  the  minds 
and  the  affections  of  our  souls  be  employed  in 
the  attainment  of  our  Supreme  Grand  Master’s 
approbation;  then  when  our  dissolution  draws 
nigh,  and  the  cold  winds  of  death  come  sighing 
around  us,  and  His  chill  dew  glistens  on  our 
brow,  with  jo}^  shall  we  obey  the  summons  of  the 
Grand  Warden  of  Heaven,  and  go  from  our 
labors  on  earth  to  everlasting  refreshment  in  the 
Paradise  of  God  ; then  by  the  benefit  of  a pass,  a 
pure  and  blameless  life,  with  a firm  reliance  on 
Divine  Providence,  shall  we  gain  ready  admission 
into  that  Celestial  Lodge  above  where  the  Su- 
preme Architect  of  the  Universe  presides ; 
where,  seated  at  the  right  hand  of  our  Supreme 
Grand  Master,  he  will  be  pleased  to  pronounce 
us  just  and  lipright  Masons;  then  shall  we  be 
fitly  prepared,  as  living  stones,  for  that  spiritual 


45 


building,  that  house  not  made  with  hands,  eter- 
nal in  the  heavens;  where  no  discordant  voice 
shall  be  heard,  but  all  that  the  soul  shall  experi- 
ence shall  be  perfect  bliss,  and  all  it  shall  express 
shall  be  perfect  praise;  and  love  divine  shall  en- 
noble every  heart,  and  hosannas  exalted  employ 
every  tongue. 

* 

* * 

CHARGE. 

Brother:  Your  zeal  for  the  institution  of 
Masonry,  the  progress  you  have  made  in  the 
mystery,  and  your  conformity  to  our  regulations, 
have  pointed  you  out  as  a proper  object  of  our 
favor  and  esteem. 

You  are  now  bound  by  duty,  honor  and 
gratitude,  to  be  faithful  to  your  trust,  to  support 
the  dignity  of  your  character  on  every  occasion; 
and  to  enforce,  by  precept  and  example,  obedi- 
ence to  the  tenets  of  the  institution. 

In  the  character  of  a Master  Mason  you  are 
authorized  to  correct  the  errors  and  irregularities 
of  your  uninformed  brethren,  and  to  guard  them 
against  a breach  of  fidelity.  To  preserve  the 
reputation  of  the  fraternity  unsullied  must  be 
your  constant  care;  and  for  this  purpose  it  is 
your  province  to  recommend  to  your  inferiors 
obedience  and  submission;  to  your  equals,  cour- 
tesy and  affability;  to  your  superiors,  kindness 
and  condescension.  Universal  benevolence  you 


46 


are  always  to  inculcate ; and,  by  the  regularity  of 
your  own  behavior,  afford  the  best  example  for 
the  conduct  of  others  less  informed.  The  ancient 
landmarks  of  Masonry  intrusted  to  your  care, 
you  are  carefully  to  preserve,  and  never  suffer 
them  to  be  infringed,  or  countenance  a deviation 
from  the  established  usages  and  customs  of  the 
fraternity. 

Your  virtue,  honor  and  reputation  are  con- 
cerned in  supporting  with  dignity  the  character 
you  now  bear.  Let  no  motive,  therefore,  make 
you  swerve  from  your  duty,  violate  your  vows,  or 
betray  your  trust;  but  be  true  and  faithful,  and 
imitate  the  example  of  that  celebrated  artist 
whom  you  this  evening  have  represented.  Thus 
you  will  render  yourself  deserving  of  the  honor 
which  we  have  conferred,  and  merit  the  con- 
fidence that  we  have  reposed. 


MICHIGAN 

MASONIC  CEREMONIES 


ADOPTED  BY 


THE  GRAND  LODGE 
FREE  AND  ACCEPTED  MASONS 
OF  MICHIGAN. 


1897. 


PUBLISHED  BY  THE  GRAND  LODGE 


UNDER  THE  DIRECTION  OF 

LOU  B.  WINSOR 

Grand  Secretary. 

1910 


Edition  of  January,  1910. 


MASONIC  BURIAL  SERVICE. 


GENERAL  DIRECTIONS. 

No  one  below  the  degree  of  Master  Mason  can 
be  buried  with,  or  participate  in,  Masonic  funeral  cere- 
monies. None  but  Master  Masons  who  are  members 
in  good  standing  of  a lodge  are  entitled  to  Masonic 
burial,  but  a lodge  may,  if  it  sees  fit,  bury  with  Masonic 
honors  an  unaffiliated  Mason. 

No  Masonic  clothing  or  jewels  can  be  worn  at 
the  funeral  of  a Brother  unless  the  lodge  be  first 
regularly  opened. 

The  Masonic  service  should  be  conducted  ex- 
clusively by  the  lodge  having  jurisdiction.  A Masonic 
lodge  should  not  take  part  in  funeral  services  conducted 
by  any  other  organization.  If  the  relatives  of  the  de- 
ceased desire  to  have  their  clergyman  participate  in  the 
services  at  the  grave,  his  portion  of  the  ceremony  should 
be  first  concluded.  After  the  lodge  service  once  com- 
mences, the  lodge  must  have  exclusive  control  until  the 
end. 

The  Secretary  should  have  prepared  an  “ obituary 
roll  on  which  should  be  inscribed  the  date  of  birth, 
age,  date  of  initiation,  passing  and  raising,  or  affiliation, 
also  a date  of  death  of  the  deceased  brother;  that  the 
funeral  services  were  performed  by  the  lodge,  and  any 
matter  which  may  be  deemed  appropriate  or  of  special 
interest  to  the  lodge. 

The  Master,  in  his  discretion,  may  omit  portions 
of  either  service,  or  may  use  portions  of  all  three, 
according  as  circumstances  may  require.  The  Lodge 
Service  ” may  be  used  at  the  house,  and  either  the 
“ Lodge  Service  ” or  the  House  Service  ” may  be  used 
at  the  grave,  making  the  necessary  changes  and  always 
remembering  that  outside  of  the  lodge  room,  only  the 
public  grand  honors  can  be  given. 


4 


LODGE  SERVICE. 

The  Brethren  being  assembled  at  the  lodge  room, 
or  some  other  convenient  place,  the  presiding  officer 
opens  the  lodge  in  the  third  degree,  with  the  usual 
forms ; and,  having  stated  the  purpose  of  the  meeting, 
the  service  begins : 

Master  (or  Chaplain) — What  man  is  he 
that  liveth  and  shall  not  see  death?  Shall  he 
deliver  his  soul  from  the  hand  of  the  grave? 

Response — Man  walketh  in  a vain  shadow, 
he  heapeth  up  riches,  and  cannot  tell  who  shall 
gather  them. 

Master — When  he  dieth  he  shall  carry 
nothing  away ; his  glory  shall  not  descend  after 
him. 

Response — Naked  he  came  into  the  world, 
and  naked  he  must  return. 

Master — The  Lord  gave,  and  the  Lord  hath 
taken  away ; blessed  be  the  name  of  the  Lord. 

The  Master,  taking  the  roll  in  his  hand,  says : 

May  we  die  the  death  of  the  righteous,  and 
may  our  last  end  be  like  his. 

The  Brethren  answer : 

God  is  our  God  forever  and  ever : He  will 
be  our  guide  even  unto  death. 

The  Master  reads  the  roll,  and  says : 

Almighty  Father ! Into  Thy  hands  we  com- 
mend the  soul  of  our  departed  Brother. 

The  Brethren  answer  three  times,  giving  the  Grand 
Honors  each  time : 

The  will  of  God  is  accomplished.  So  mote 
it  be. 

The  Master  delivers  the  roll  to  the  Secretary,  to 
be  deposited  in  the  archives. 


5 


Prayer  by  the  Chaplain : 

Most  Glorious  God,  Author  of  all  good  and 
giver  of  all  mercy,  pour  down  Thy  blessing 
upon  us  and  strengthen  our  solemn  engage- 
ments with  the  ties  of  sincere  affection.  May 
the  present  instance  of  mortality  remind  us  of 
our  approaching  fate,  and  by  drawing  our  at- 
tention towards  Thee,  the  only  refuge  in  the 
time  of  need,  may  we  be  induced  so  to  regulate 
our  conduct  here  that  when  the  awful  moment 
shall  arrive  that  we  are  about  to  quit  this 
transitory  scene,  the  enlivening  prospect  of 
Thy  mercy  may  dispel  the  gloom  of  death ; and 
after  our  departure  hence  in  peace  and  in  Thy 
favor,  may  we  be  received  into  Thine  everlast- 
ing kingdom,  and  there  enjoy,  in  union  with 
the  souls  of  our  departed  friends,  the  just  re- 
wards of  a pious  and  virtuous  life.  Amen. 

Response — So  mote  it  be. 

The  procession  is  formed  by  the  Marshal,  and 
the  Brethren  proceed,  left  in  front,  to  the  house  of  the 
deceased. 


HOUSE  OR  CHURCH  SERVICE. 

W.  M. — Lord,  Thou  hast  been  our  dwelling 
place  in  all  generations. 

Brothers  — Before  the  mountains  were 
brought  forth,  or  even  Thou  hadst  formed  the 
earth  and  the  world,  even  from  everlasting  to 
everlasting.  Thou  art  God. 

W.  M. — Thou  turnest  man  to  destruction 
and  sayest.  Return,  ye  children  of  men. 

Bros. — Eor  a thousand  years  in  Thy  sight 
are  but  as  yesterday,  when  it  is  past,  and  as  a 
watch  in  the  night. 


6 


W.  M. — Thou  carriest  them  away  as  with 
a flood;  they  are  as  asleep:  in  the  morning 
they  are  as  grass  which  groweth  up. 

Bros. — In  the  morning  it  flourisheth  and 
groweth  up;  in  the  evening  it  is  cut  down  and 
withereth. 

W.  M. — We  are  consumed  by  Thine  anger, 
and  by  Thy  wrath  are  we  troubled. 

Bros. — Thou  hast  set  our  iniquities  before 
Thee,  our  secret  sins  in  the  light  of  Thy  coun- 
tenance. 

W.  M. — For  all  our  days  are  passed  away 
in  Thy  wrath ; we  spend  our  years  as  a tale  that 
is  told. 

Bros. — The  days  of  our  years  are  three- 
score years  and  ten ; and  if  by  reason  of 
strength,  they  be  four-score,  yet  is  their 
strength,  labor  and  sorrow,  for  it  is  soon  cut  off, 
and  we  fly  away. 

W.  M. — Who  knoweth  the  power  of  Thine 
anger?  Even  according  to  Thy  fear,  so  is  Thy 
wrath. 

Bros. — So  teach  us  to  number  our  days  that 
we  may  apply  our  hearts  unto  wisdom. 

W.  M. — Death  and  the  dead  are  with  us 
again,  my  brethren,  teaching  us  the  brevity 
and  uncertainty  of  human  life  and  the  insta- 
bility of  human  fortune,  and  demanding  of  us 
the  last  sad  offices  of  charity  and  brotherhood. 

The  body  of  our  beloved  Brother 

lies  before  us,  overtaken  by  that  relentless  fate 
which  is  sooner  or  later  to  overtake  us  all,  and 
which  no  worth  or  virtue,  no  wealth  or  honor, 
no  tears  of  friends  or  agony  of  loved  ones  can 
avert  or  delay;  teaching  us  the  impressive  les- 
son, continually  repeated,  yet  always  soon  for- 


7 


gotten,  that  every  one  of  us  must,  ere  long, 
dwell  in  the  house  of  darkness.  Very  elo- 
quent, my  brethren,  are  the  pale,  still  lips  of 
the  dead.  With  a pathos  and  impressiveness 
that  no  living  lips  can  equal,  these  lips  of  mar- 
ble preach  to  us  sermons  that  cannot  be  trans- 
lated into  words.  Most  eloquently  they  tell 
us  how  vain  and  empty  are  all  ambitions, 
hatreds,  jealousies,  disputes  and  rivalries, 
struggles  for  wealth  and  place  and  power,  for 
rank  and  reputation. 

But  this  body  over  which  we  now  mourn  is 
not  our  brother,  but  only  that  which  was  his 
human  and  material  part  until  God  laid  His 
finger  upon  him  and  he  slept.  He  was  mortal 
but  now  has  put  on  immortality.  He  sleeps, 
but  he  shall  wake  again. 

S.  W. — I know  that  my  Redeemer  liveth, 
and  that  He  shall  stand  at  the  latter  day  upon 
the  earth.  And  though,  after  my  skin,  worms 
destroy  this  body,  yet  in  my  flesh  shall  I see 
God;  whom  I shall  see  for  myself,  and  mine 
eyes  shall  behold,  and  not  another. 

J.  W. — I am  the  resurrection  and  the  life, 
saith  the  Lord ; he  that  believeth  in  Me,  though 
he  were  dead,  yet  shall  he  live;  and  whosoever 
liveth  and  believeth  in  Me  shall  never  die. 

Master — My  brethren,  it  is  an  act  of  grace 
and  wondrous  mercy  that  we  are  permitted 
to  speak  to  the  Eternal  God ; to  make  plaint  to 
Him  as  to  a father.  Wherefore,  since  this  cal- 
amity has  fallen  upon  us  and  He  hath  com- 
manded us  in  such  cases  to  pray  unto  Him,  let 
us  ask  of  Him  power  and  assistance  to  do  our 
duty,  and  His  favor  for  those  who  are  afflicted 
in  even  greater  measure  than  ourselves. 


8 


/ 


Chaplain  or  Master — Let  us  pray. 

Most  glorious  and  merciful  Lord  God, 
author  of  all  good  and  giver  of  every  perfect 
gift,  pour  down,  we  beseech  Thee,  Thy  bless- 
ing upon  us  and  under  the  deep  solemnities  of 
this  occasion,  bind  us  yet  closer  together  in 
the  ties  of  brotherly  love  and  affection.  May 
the  present  instance  of  mortality  sensibly  re- 
mind us  of  our  approaching  fate;  and  may  it 
have  an  influence  to  wean  our  affections  from 
the  things  of  this  transitory  world,  and  to  fix 
them  more  devoutly  upon  Thee,  the  only  sure 
refuge  in  time  of  need ; and  at  last,  O God, 
when  our  dissolution  draws  nigh,  when  the 
silver  cord  shall  be  loosed,  and  the  golden  bowl 
be  broken,  in  the  moment  of  mortal  extremity 
may  the  lamp  of  Thy  love  dispel  the  gloom 
of  the  dark  valley,  and  may  we  be  enabled  to 
work  an  entrance  into  the  Celestial  Lodge 
above,  and  in  the  Glorious  Presence,  amidst  its 
ineffable  mysteries,  enjoy  a union  with  the 
souls  of  our  departed  friends,  perfect  as  is  the 
happiness  of  heaven,  and  durable  as  is  the 
eternity  of  God.  Amen  ! 

Bros. — So  mote  it  be. 

The  procession  is  then  formed  in  the  following 
order : 


Tiler,  with  drawn  sword. 
Musicians  (if  not  Masons.) 
Stewards,  with  white  rods. 
Musicians  (if  they  are  Masters.) 
Master  Masons. 

Senior  and  Junior  Deacons. 
Secretary  and  Treasurer. 

Senior  and  Junior  Wardens. 
Past  Masters. 


9 


The  Holy  Writings,  on  a cushion  covered 
with  black  cloth,  carried  by  the  oldest 
member  of  the  Lodge. 

Clergy. 

The  coffin,  with  Apron  placed  thereon,  and 
Pall-bearers  on  each  side. 

On  arriving  at  the  grave,  the  Worshipful  Master 
takes  his  place  at  the  head  of  the  grave,  the  Senior 
Warden  at  the  foot  and  the  Junior  Warden  at  the 
south  side.  The  friends  of  the  deceased  standing  behind 
the  Senior  Warden;  the  Holy  Writings  on  the  right 
side  of  the  Master,  and  the  Brethren  encircling  the 
whole. 

The  Worshipful  Master  then  says: 

Brethren,  the  solemn  notes  that  betoken 
the  dissolution  of  this  earthly  tabernacle  have 
again  alarmed  our  outer  door,  and  another 
spirit  has  been  removed  to  the  land  where  our 
fathers  have  gone  before  us.  Again  we  are 
called  to  assemble  among  the  habitations  of 
the  dead,  to  behold  the  narrow  house  ap- 
pointed for  all  living.  Here  around  us,  in  that 
peace  which  the  world  cannot  give,  sleep  the 
unnumbered  dead.  The  gentle  breezes  fan 
their  verdant  covering — they  heed  it  not;  the 
sunshine  and  the  .storm  pass  over  them,  and 
they  are  not  disturbed.  Stones  and  lettered 
monuments  symbolize  the  affection  of  surviv- 
ing friends,  yet  no  sound  proceeds  from  them, 
save  that  silent  but  thrilling  admonition : 
''  Seek  ye  the  narrow  path  and  the  strait  gate 
that  leadeth  to  eternal  life.'’ 

The  occasion  admonishes  us  to  consider  the 
uncertainty  of  human  life,  the  immutable  cer- 
tainty of  death,  and  the  vanity  of  all  earthly 
pursuits.  Decrepitude  and  decay  are  written 
upon  every  living  thing.  The  cradle  and  the 
coffin  stand  in  juxtaposition  to  each  other,  and 


10 


it  is  a melancholy  truth,  that  as  soon  as  we  be- 
gin to  live,  that  moment  also  we  begin  to  die. 
What  an  eloquent  commentary  is  here  ex- 
hibited upon  the  instability  of  every  human 
pursuit,  and  how  touchingly  does  it  echo  the 
sad  sentiment  of  the  great  preacher  who  wrote 
for  our  perpetual  warning  the  immortal  text: 
''  Vanity  of  vanity,  all  is  vanity. ’’ 

The  last  offices  which  we  pay  to  the  dead 
are  vain,  except  as  they  constitute  lessons  to 
the  living.  The  cold  marble  form,  enclosed  in 
the  narrow  house  before  us,  is  alike  insensible 
to  our  sorrows  and  our  ceremonies.  It  mat- 
ters not  now  to  him  whether  two  or  three 
gather  around  the  grave  to  perform  his  funeral 
ritual,  or  that  hundreds  have  assembled  with 
the  insignia  of  the  craft,  to  deposit  him  in  his 
final  resting  place.  It  is  of  little  moment 
whether  the  wild  winds  chant  his  requiem  or 
it  be  accompanied  with  rare  and  costly  music 
and  the  minstrelsy  of  many  voices.  He  has 
gone  to  accomplish  the  destiny  of  our  race ; his 
body,  in  the  profound  slumber  of  the  grave, 
to  be  dissolved  into  its  original  elements.  What 
then,  are  the  externals  of  human  dignity, 
power  of  wealth,  dreams  of  ambition,  pride  of 
intellect,  or  the  charms  of  beauty,  when  na- 
ture has  paid  her  last  debt?  The  monarch  of 
a hundred  provinces,  at  whose  bidding  nations 
pay  obeisance,  and  the  poor  beggar,  who  shiv- 
ers at  his  gate,  are  equals  in  the  house  of 
death.  The  one  is  obliged  to  part  with  his 
sceptre  and  crown  ; the  other  has  no  further  use 
for  his  wallet  and  rags — both  are  indebted  to 
mother  earth  for  a common  sepulchre.  In  the 


11 


grave  all  fallacies  are  detected,  all  ranks  are 
leveled,  and  all  distinctions  vanish.  While  we 
drop  the  sympathetic  tear  over  the  grave  of 
our  departed  brother,  let  us  cast  around  his 
foibles,  whatever  they  may  have  been,  the 
broad  mantle  of  Masonic  charity,  nor  withhold 
from  his  memory  the  commendation  that  his 
virtues  deserve. 

The  coffin  is  then  lowered  into  the  grave,  the 
apron  having  been  previously  taken  from  the  coffin 
and  handed  to  the  Master,  who  raises  it  in  his  hand 
and  then  says : 

The  lambskin  or  white  leathern  apron  is  an 
emblem  of  innocence  and  the  badge  of  a Ma- 
son, more  ancient  than  the  Golden  Fleece  or 
Roman  Eagle,  and,  when  worthily  worn,  more 
honorable  than  the  Star  and  Garter,  or  any 
other  order.  This  emblem  I now  deposit  in 
the  grave  of  our  deceased  brother  (deposits  it). 
By  it  we  are  reminded  of  that  purity  of  life 
and  conduct  so  essentially  necessary  to  our 
gaining  ready  admission . into  the  Celestial 
Lodge  above,  where  the  Supreme  Architect  of 
the  Universe  presides. 

All  the  brethren,  led  by  the  Master,  go  from  right 
to  left  once  around  the  grave,  holding  toward  the  grave 
the  right  arm  lowered,  palm  downward  and  singing  the 
following  stanza: 

Solemn  strikes  the  funeral  chime, 

Notes  of  our  departing  time. 

As  we  journey  here  below 
Through  a pilgrimage  of  woe. 

When  the  Master  arrives  at  his  place,  the  brethren 
halt  and  the  public  Grand  Honors  are  given  once,  under 
the  direction  of  the  Worshipful  Master. 

W.  M. — (Taking  off  his  white  glove  and 
holding  it  up.)  This  glove  is  a symbol  of 


12 


fidelity,  and  is  emblematic  of  that  Masonic 
friendship  which  bound  us  to  him  whose  tene- 
ment of  clay  now  lies  before  us.  It  reminds  us 
that  while  these  mortal  eyes  shall  see  him  not 
again,  yet,  by  the  practice  of  the  tenets  of  our 
noble  order  and  a firm  faith  and  steadfast  trust 
in  the  Supreme  Architect,  we  hope  to  clasp 
once  more  his  vanished  hand  in  friendship  and 
in  love.  (Deposits  glove.)  Those  whom  virtue 
unites,  death  can  never  separate. 

All  march  around  the  grave  again,  as  before,  sing- 
ing the  following  stanza : 

Here  another  guest  we  bring, 

Seraphs  of  celestial  wing; 

To  our  funeral  altar  come, 

Waft  our  friend  and  brother  home. 

When  the  Master  again  arrives  at  his  place,  the 
Grand  Honors  are  given  twice : 

W.  M. — (Holding  up  sprig  of  evergreen.) 
— This  evergreen,  which  once  marked  the  tem- 
porary resting  place  of  the  illustrious  dead,  is 
an  emblem  of  our  faith  in  the  immortality  of 
the  soul.  By  it  we  are  reminded  that  we  have 
an  immortal  part  within  us  which  survives  the 
grave  and  which  shall  never,  never,  no,  never 
die.  This,  too,  I deposit  in  the  grave.  Alas, 
m}^^  brother. 

The  Master  brings  his  right  hand  holding  the  ever- 
green to  his  left  breast ; then  extends  it  downward  over 
the  grave,  palm  down ; drops  the  evergreen  into  the 
grave  at  its  head ; then  quickly  points  upward  over  his 
head  with  his  hand  closed,  except  the  index  finger; 
then  drops  the  open  hand  down  by  his  side.  All  then 
move  around  the  grave  as  before,  singing  the  following 
stanza : 


13 


Lord  of  all  below,  above, 

Fill  our  hearts  with  truth  and  love, 
When  dissolves  our  earthly  tie, 

Take  us  to  Thy  Lodge  on  high. 

As  each  member  passes  the  head  of  the  grave  he 
drops  his  evergreen  in  the  same  manner  as  did  the 
Master. 

The  W.  M.,  S.  W.,  and  J.  W.,  each  having  taken 
lip  a handful  of  earth  and  standing  in  their  respective 
positions. 

The  Worshipful  Master  says : 

Forasmuch  as  it  hath  pleased  Almighty 
God  to  remove  the  spirit  of  our  departed 
brother  from  our  midst,  we  therefore  commit 
his  body  to  the  grave.  Earth  to  earth. 

Here  the  W.  M.  drops  his  handful  of  earth  in  the 
grave. 

The  S.  W.  says : 

Ashes  to  ashes. 

and  drops  his  handful  of  earth  in  the  grave. 

The  J.  W.  says : 

Dust  to  dust. 

and  drops  his  handful  of  earth  in  the  grave. 

The  Worshipful  Master  then  says:  ''  Breth- 
ren, together  attend  the  funeral  Grand  Hon- 
ors.'’ 

The  funeral  Grand  Honors  are  then  given  in  the 
following  manner:  The  Worshipful  Master  or  other 

officiating  brother  repeating: 

We  deposit  the  body  of  our  deceased 
brother  in  the  grave: 

We  treasure  his  memory  in  our  hearts; 

We  commend  his  spirit  to  God,  who  gave  it. 

While  the  first  sentence  is  being  repeated,  the 
brethren  will,  at  the  same  time  with  the  W.  M.,  raise 
both  hands  to  a level  with  the  elbow,  extending  them 
slightly  in  front  of  the  body,  hands  open  and  both 


14 


palms  down ; then,  as  the  second  sentence  is  being 
repeated,  all  will  cross  their  hands  upon  their  breasts, 
left  hand  over;  and,  as  the  third  sentence  is  being 
repeated,  all  will  extend  their  arms  to  the  front,  then 
raising  the  hands  so  that  the  arms  will  be  at  an  angle 
of  about  forty-five  degrees,  and  as  the  sentence  is 
finished,  let  the  hands  fall  naturally  to  the  side. 

The  W.  M.,  resuming,  says: 

From  time  immemorial  it  has  been  the  cus- 
tom among  the  fraternity  of  Free  and  Ac- 
cepted Masons,  at  the  request  of  a brother,  to 
accompany  his  remains  to  the  place  of  inter- 
ment, and  there  to  deposit  them  with  the  usual 
ceremonies.  In  conformity  with  this  usage, 
and  at  the  request  of  our  deceased  brother, 
whose  memory  we  cherish,  and  whose  loss  we 
now  deplore,  we  have  assembled  in  the  charac- 
ter of  Masons  to  offer  up  to  his  memory,  be- 
fore the  world,  this  tribute  of  our  affection, 
thereby  demonstrating  the  sincerity  of  our 
past  esteem  for  him  and  our  steady  attach- 
ment to  the  principles  of  the  order. 

To  those  of  his  immediate  friends  and  rela- 
tives, who  are  most  heart-stricken  at  the  loss 
we  have  all  sustained,  we  have  but  little  of  this 
world’s  consolation  to  offer.  We  can  only  sin- 
cerely, deeply  and  most  affectionately  sympa- 
thize with  them  in  their  bereavement;  but  we 
can  assure  them  that  He  who  tempers  the 
wind  to  the  shorn  lamb,  looks  down  with  in- 
finite compassion  upon  the  widow  and  the 
fatherless  in  the  hour  of  their  desolation,  and 
that  the  Great  Architect  will  fold  the  arms  of 
His  love  and  protection  around  those  who  put 
their  trust  in  Him. 

And  now,  my  brethren,  let  us  ponder  well 
the  lessons  of  this  hour.  We  are  all  born  to 


15 


die.  We  follow  our  friends  to  the  brink  of  the 
grave,  and,  standing,  as  it  were,  on  the  shore 
of  a vast  ocean,  gaze  with  exceeding  anxiety 
until  the  last  dread  struggle  is  over;  and  we 
see  them  sink  into  the  fathomless  abyss.  We 
feel  our  own  feet  slip  from  the  precarious  bank 
upon  which  we  stand  and,  but  a few  suns  more 
and  we,  too,  shall  be  whelmed  amid  death’s 
awful  wave,  to  rest  in  the  stilly  shade,  while 
darkness  and  silence  reign  around  our  melan- 
choly abode.  But,  is  this  the  end  of  man,  and 
the  expiring  hope  of  all  faithful  Masons?  No, 
blessed  be  God!  We  pause  not  on  our  first  or 
second  step,  but,  true  to  our  profession,  look 
forward  for  greater  light.  As  the  embers  of 
mortality  are  feebly  glimmering  in  the  socket 
of  existence,  the  Bible,  that  great  light  in  Ma- 
sonry, removes  the  dark  cloud ; it  draws  aside 
the  sable  curtain  of  the  tomb,  and  bids  hope 
and  joy  rise  up  to  cheer  and  sustain  the  droop- 
ing spirit.  It  points  beyond  the  grave  to  the 
breaking  light  of  the  resurrection  morn ; and 
bids  us  turn  our  eyes  of  hope  and  confidence  on 
the  opening  scenes  of  a glorious  eternity. 

Then,  my  brethren,  let  us  so  live  that  when 
our  dissolution  draws  nigh,  the  entrance  to  the 
dark  valley  and  shadow  of  death  may  be  illum- 
inated by  the  consciousness  of  a well-spent  life 
and  the  hope  of  a glorious  immortality. 

And  may  Almighty  God,  in  His  infinite 
goodness,  extend  His  mercy  towards  him  and 
all  of  us.  Amen. 

The  brethren  respond.  So  mote  it  be. 

W.  M. — Brethren,  let  us  clasp  hands  and 
reunite  the  golden  chain  of  brotherhood,  from 


16 


which  the  rude  hand  of  death  has  so  lately 
broken  this  link. 

Each  crosses  his  arms  upon  his  breast,  right  arm 
above  left,  his  right  hand  clasping  the  left  hand  of 
the  brother  on  his  left,  and  his  left  hand  clasping  the 
right  hand  of  the  brother  on  his  right  The  Master 
then  whispers  into  the  ear  of  the  brother  on  the  left 
some  Masonic  word  or  short  sentence,  suggestive  of 
death,  the  resurrection,  or  some  kindred  topic.  This 
brother  in  turn  whispers  the  same  word  or  words  into 
the  ear  of  the  brother  on  his  left ; and  so  on  around  the 
entire  circle,  all  keeping  their  hands  clasped  until  the 
word  or  words  get  back  to  the  Master  by  being  whis- 
pered into  his  ear  by  the  brother  on  his  right. 

W.  M. — The  chain  is  reunited. 

Chaplain — May  the  blessing  of  Heaven 
rest  upon  us  and  all  regular  Masons.  May 
brotherly  love  prevail  and  every  moral  and 
social  virtue  cement  us.  Amen. 

Respons’e — So  mote  it  be. 

The  brethren  then  retire  two  or  three  steps  from 
the  grave,  and  the  Master,  stepping  forward  to  the  head 
of  the  grave,  says : 

Soft  and  safe  to  you,  my  brother,  be  this 
earthly  bed ; bright  and  glorious  be  your  rising 
from  it.  Fragrant  be  the  acacia’s  bloom  which 
here  shall  flourish.  May  the  earliest  buds  of 
spring  unfold  their  beauties  o’er  your  resting 
place,  and  here  may  the  fragrance  of  the  sum- 
mer’s latest  rose  linger  longest.  Though  the 
cold  blast  of  autumn  may  lay  them  in  the  dust, 
and  for  a time  destroy  the  loveliness  of  their 
existence,  yet  the  destruction  is  not  final,  and 
in  the  springtime  they  shall  surely  bloom 
again.  So,  in  the  bright  morning  of  the  world’s 
resurrection,  your  mortal  frame,  now  laid  low 
in  the  dust  by  the  chilling  blasts  of  death,  shall 


17 


Spring  again  into  newness  of  life  and  unfold 
in  immortal  beauty  in  realms  beyond  the  skies. 
Until  then,  dear  brother,  fare  thee  well ! fare 
thee  well ! 

The  brethren  unite  in  the  second  Fare  Thee  Well.’^ 
The  procession  is  then  reformed,  and  returns  to 
the  lodge  room,  where  the  lodge  is  closed  in  due  form. 


18 


LODGE  OF  SORROW. 

GENERAL  DIRECTIONS. 

I.  The  services  may  be  held  in  the  lodge  room, 
either  private  or  public;  or  in  some  church  or  public 
hall,  when  they  are,  of  course,  public.  When  not  in 
the  lodge  room,  the  lodge  , meets  in  its  lodge  room 
and  is  marched  in  the  usual  order  of  procession  to  the 
hall  or  church. 

The  Master  occupies  the  center  of  a raised  plat- 
form at  one  end  of  the  building,  the  Senior  and  Junior 
Wardens  in  front  of  him,  at  his  right  and  left,  re- 
spectively, and  facing  each  other.  When  in  a church, 
the  Master  may  occupy  the  pulpit,  the  Senior  and 
Junior  Wardens  sitting  in  the  altar  space  in  front, 
facing  each  other  at  the  right  and  left  respectively,  of 
the  Master;  the  Senior  and  Junior  Deacons  at  the  right 
front,  facing  each  other  at  the  right  and  left,  respect- 
ively, of  the  Master,  the  Senior  Deacon  at  the  right 
front  corner  of  the  altar  space,  and  the  Junior  Deacon 
at  the  left  front  corner. 

II.  A catafalque  should  be  erected  about  six  feet 
long  by  four  feet  wide,  on  which  are  placed  two  uni- 
formly smaller  platforms  in  succession  so  that  the 
whole  represents  three  steps,  each  an  appropriate  height 
above  the  other.  On  the  top  of  the  last  is  placed  an 
urn  filled  with  clean,  dry  sand,  and  of  material  capable 
of  resisting  the  action  of  heat  The  sand  should  be 
thoroughly  saturated  with  alcohol. 

III.  If  the  services  are  in  the  lodge  room,  the 
catafalque  should  be  placed  in  the  center  of  the  lodge; 
in  a public  hall,  at  some  convenient  place  near  the 
Master’s  station;  if  in  a church,  in  the  altar  space  in 
front  of  the  pulpit.  Whether  in  a hall  or  church,  it 
should  be  between  the  Senior  and  Junior  Wardens. 

IV.  At  each  corner  of  the  catafalque  should  be  a 
tall  silver  candlestick  holding  a taper.  On  the  cata- 
falque should  be  placed  a pair  of  white  gloves  and  an 
apron.  When  the  services  are  in  memory  of  more  than 
one  brother,  placards  may  be  placed  around  the  cata- 
falque, each  bearing  the  name  of  one  of  the  memoralized 
brethren. 


19 


V.  The  lodge  room  (or  the  hall  or  church)  should 
be  appropriately  draped  in  white  and  black  cloth.  The 
catafalque  should  be  covered  with  black  cloth.  When 
the  bottom  platform  rests  on  legs,  (which  is  a more 
convenient  and  a cheaper  form),  the  black  cloth  should 
hang  down  all  around  it  to  the  floor,  concealing  the  legs 
and  presenting  an  appearance  of  a solid  altar  draped 
in  black  with  three  successive  tiers  or  platforms.  Two 
wreaths  of  white  flowers  and  a wreath  of  evergreen 
should  be  provided. 

VI.  On  a pedestal  at  the  side  and  to  the  front  of 
the  Master  should  be  placed  a skull  and  a lighted  taper. 
The  brethren  should  be  dressed,  and  the  regalia  craped, 
as  on  funeral  occasions.  Each  brother  should  wear  a 
sprig  of  evergreen  on  his  left  breast. 

VII.  Trained  voices  should  be  secured  for  the 
singing;  the  words  and  music  should  be  selected  before- 
hand; and  this  should  be  under  the  direction  of  a com- 
petent person,  whom  the  Master  should  inform  of  the 
program. 

SERVICE. 

MUSIC — ANTHEM  OR  ODE. 

W.  M.  (standing) — O praise  the  Lord,  all 
ye  nations ; praise  Him  all  ye  people.  For  His 
merciful  kindness  is  great  towards  us;  and  the 
truth  of  the  Lord  endureth  forever.  Praise  ye 
the  Lord.  Psalm  cxvii. 

S.  W.  (standing) — The  earth  is  the  Lord’s 
and  the  fullness  thereof ; the  world  and  they 
that  dwell  therein.  For  He  hath  founded  it 
upon  the  seas,  and  established  it  upon  the 
floods.  Who  shall  ascend  into  the  hill  of  the 
Lord,  and  who  shall  stand  in  His  holy  place? 
He  that  hath  clean  hands  and  a pure  heart; 
who  hath  not  lifted  up  his  soul  unto  vanity,  nor 
sworn  deceitfully.  He  shall  receive  the  bless- 
ing from  the  Lord,  and  righteousness  from  the 
God  of  his  salvation.  Psalm  xxiv : 1-5. 

J.  W.  (standing) — The  Lord  is  my  shepherd, 


20 


I shall  not  want.  He  maketh  me  to  lie  down  in 
green  pastures;  He  leadeth  me  beside  the  still 
waters.  He  restoreth  my  soul.  He  leadeth  me 
in  the  paths  of  righteousness  for  His  name’s 
sake.  Yea,  though  I walk  through  the  valley 
of  the  shadow  of  death,  I will  fear  no  evil,  for 
Thou  art  with  me ; Thy  rod  and  Thy  staff  they 
comfort  me.  Thou  preparest  a table  before  me 
in  the  presence  of  mine  enemies ; Thou  anoint- 
est  my  head  with  oil ; my  cup  runneth  over. 
Surely  goodness  and  mercy  shall  follow  me  all 
the  days  of  my  life,  and  I shall  dwell  in  the 
house  of  the  Lord  forever.  Psalm  xxiii. 

W.  M. — By  the  rivers  of  Babylon,  there  we 
sat  down ; yea,  we  wept  when  we  remembered 
Zion,  We  hanged  our  harps  upon  the  willows 
in  the  midst  thereof.  For  there  they  that  car- 
ried us  away  captive  required  of  us  a song,  and 
they  that  wasted  us  required  of  us  mirth,  say- 
ing: Sing  us  one  of  the  songs  of  Zion.  How 
shall  we  sing  the  Lord’s  song  in  a strange 
land?  If  I forget  thee,  O Jerusalem,  let  my 
right  hand  forget  her  cunning.  If  I do  not  re- 
member thee,  let  my  tongue  cleave  to  the  roof 
of  my  mouth;  if  I prefer  not  Jerusalem  above 
my  chief  joy.  Psalm  cxxxvii : i-6. 

Master  calls  up  the  lodge. 

W.  M. — The  Lord  is  in  His  holy  temple. 
Let  all  the  earth  keep  silence  before  Him. 

Here  follows  an  extemporaneous  prayer,  or  the 
following : 

Chaplain — Come,  Thou  eternal  and  invisible 
God,  Lord  of  all  the  earth,  and  inspire  our 
hearts  with  becoming  gratitude,  love  and 
praise.  Soothe  the  sorrow  of  all  who  mourn 
the  dead  whom  we  this  night  commemorate. 


21 


Remember  in  compassion  the  weakness  and 
frailties  of  these,  their  surviving  brethren ; de- 
liver us  not  into  the  bitter  pains  of  eternal 
death ; shut  not  Thy  merciful  ears  to  our 
prayers;  spare  us,  O Lord,  most  holy,  O God, 
most  mighty;  Thou  who  judgest  the  quick  and 
the  dead,  suffer  us  not  in  our  last  hour,  for  any 
pains  of  death,  to  fall  from  Thee.  Raise  us 
from  the  death  of  sin  into  the  life  of  righteous- 
ness, that,  when  we  shall  depart  this  life,  we 
may  rest  in  Thee,  and,  at  the  general  resurrec- 
tion on  the  last  day,  may  we  be  found  accept- 
able in  Thy  sight,  and  receive  the  crown  of 
life.  And  to  Thee  be  all  the  honor  and  glory, 
world  without  end.  Amen. 

Response — So  mote  it  be. 

Master  seats  the  lodge. 

MUSIC— ODE. 

Abide  with  me;  fast  falls  the  eventide; 

The  darkness  deepens ; Lord,  with  me  abide ; 

When  other  helpers  fail,  and  comforts  flee, 

Help  of  the  helpless,  O abide  with  me. 

Swift  to  its  close  ebbs  out  life’s  little  day; 

Earth’s  joys  grow  dim,  its  glories  pass  away; 

Change  and  decay  in  all  around  I see, 

O Thou  who  changest  not,  abide  with  me. 

Hold  Thou  Thy  cross  before  my  closing  eyes — 

Shine  through  the  gloom  and  point  me  to  the  skies ; 

Heaven’s  morning  breaks  and  earth’s  vain  shadows 
flee. 

In  life,  in  death,  O Lord,  abide  with  me. 

The  Master  and  Wardens  arise. 

W.  M. — Brother  Senior  Warden,  for  what 
purpose  are  we  assembled? 

S.  W. — To  honor  the  memory  of  those 
brethren  whom  death  has  taken  from  us;  to 


22 


contemplate  our  own  approaching  dissolution, 
and,  by  the  remembrance  of  immortality,  to 
raise  our  souls  above  the  considerations  of  this 
transitory  existence. 

W.  M. — Brother  Junior  Warden,  what  sen- 
timents should  inspire  the  souls  of  Masons  on 
occasions  like  this? 

J.  W. — Calm  sorrow  for  the  absence  of  our 
brethren  who  have  gone  before  us;  earnest 
solicitude  for  our  own  eternal  welfare,  and  a 
firm  faith  and  reliance  upon  the  wisdom  and 
goodness  of  God.' 

W.  M. — Brethren,  commending  this  senti- 
ment to  your  earnest  consideration,  and  invok- 
ing your  assistance  in  the  solemn  ceremonies 
about  to  take  place,  I declare  this  Lodge  of 
Sorrow  opened. 

The  Master  may  here  make  some  remarks  appropri- 
ate to  the  occasion,  naming  those  who  are  commemo- 
rated. Here  should  be  read  sketches  of  each  brother, 
prepared  expressly  for  the  occasion,  giving  prominence 
to  their  Masonic  careers  and  characters.  One  or  more 
addresses  may  also  be  interspersed  by  brethren  selected 
for  the  purpose;  special  care  being  taken  that  each  is 
not  too  long.  The  whole  should  be  interspersed  with 
appropriate  sacred  music. 

W.  M. — (Taking  the  skull  in  his  hands) — 
Brethren,  behold  this  emblem  of  mortality, 
once  the  abode  of  a spirit  like  our  own.  Be- 
neath this  mouldering  canopy  once  shone  the 
bright  and  busy  eye.  Within  this  hollow  cavern 
once  played  the  ready,  swift  and  tuneful 
tongue.  But  now,  though  it  is  sightless  and 
mute,  it  is  still  eloquent  only  in  the  lesson  it 
teaches. 

Think  on  these  brethren,  who  but  a few 
days  since  were  among  us  in  all  the  pride  and 


23 


power  of  life.  Think  on  yourselves;  thus  will 
you  be  when  the  candle  of  life  has  burned  to 
its  socket.  Man’s  life  is  like  a flower  which 
blooms  today  and  tomorrow  is  faded  and  cast 
aside  and  trodden  under  foot.  Most  of  us,  my 
brethren,  are  fast  approaching,  or  already  have 
passed  the  meridian  of  life.  Our  sun  is  sinking 
to  the  west. 

How  much  more  quickly  now  fly  the  years 
than  when,  in  rosy  youth,  we  looked  upon  un- 
clouded skies. 

Centuries  upon  centuries  have  rolled  away 
behind  us ; before  us  stretches  out  an  eternity 
of  years  to  come.  On  the  narrow  boundary  be- 
tween the  past  and  the  present,  flickers  the 
puny  taper  called  life.  The  cradle  speaks  to 
us  of  remembrance ; the  coflin  tells  us  of  hope 
and  a blessed  trust  in  the  never-ending  exist- 
ence beyond  the  portals  of  the  tomb. 

Let  us  consider  how  soon  the  gaps  are  filled 
that  are  made  in  society  by  those  who  die 
around  us ; how  soon  time  heals  the  wounds 
that  death  inflicts  upon  the  loving  heart,  and 
from  this  let  us  learn  humility.  We  are  but 
drops  in  the  great  ocean  of  humanity. 

When  God  sends  his  angel  to  us  with  the 
scroll  of  death,  let  us  meet  it  with  the  fortitude 
of  upright  men  and  Masons,  and,  with  peaceful 
resignation,  lie  softly  down  and  into  pleasant 
sleep. 

W.  M.  (calling  up  the  Lodge) — Lord,  Thou 
hast  been  our  dwelling  place  in  all  generations. 

S.  W. — Before  the  mountains  were  brought 
forth,  or  ever  Thou  hadst  formed  the  earth, 
and  the  world,  even  from  everlasting  to  ever- 
lasting, Thou  art  God. 


24 


J.  W. — Thou  turnest  man  to  destruction ; 
and  sayest,  return  ye  children  of  men. 

W.  — For  a thousand  years  in  Thy  sight 

are  but  as  yesterday  when  it  is  past,  and  as  a 
watch  in  the  night. 

S.  W. — Thou  carriest  them  away  as  with  a 
flood ; they  are  as  asleep ; in  the  morning  they 
are  like  grass  which  groweth  up. 

J.  W. — In  the  morning  it  flourisheth  and 
groweth  up,  in  the  evening  it  is  cut  down  and 
wflthereth. 

W.  M. — For  we  are  consumed  by  Thine 
anger,  and  by  Thy  wrath  are  we  troubled. 

S.  W. — Thou  hast  set  our  iniquities  before 
Thee,  our  secret  sins  in  the  light  of  Thy  coun- 
tenance. 

J.  W. — For  all  our  years  are  passed  away  in 
Thy  wrath  ; we  spend  our  years  as  a tale  that  is 
told. 

W.  M. — The  days  of  our  years  are  three- 
score years  and  ten ; and  if,  by  reason  of 
strength,  they  be  four-score  years,  yet  is  their 
strength,  labor  and  sorrow ; for  it  is  soon  cut  off 
and  we  fly  away. 

S.  W. — Who  knoweth  the  power  of  Thine 
anger?  Even  according  to  thy  fear,  so  is  thy 
wrath. 

J.  W. — So  teach  us  to  number  our  days  that 
we  may  apply  our  hearts  unto  wisdom.  Psalm 
xc:  I-I2. 

The  Master  and  Wardens  resume  their  seats,  and 
the  Chaplain  rises. 

Chaplain — Lo,  He  goeth  by  me  and  I see 
Him  not ; He  passeth  on  also,  but  I perceive 
Him  not.  Behold,  He  taketh  away.  Who  can 
hinder  Him. 


25 


Oh,  that  my  words  were  now  written.  Oh, 
that  they  were  printed  in  a book,  that  they 
were  graven  with  an  iron  pen  and  lead  in  the 
rock  forever.  For  I know  that  my  Redeemer 
liveth  and  that  He  shall  stand  at  the  latter  day 
upon  the  earth.  And  though  after  my  skin, 
worms  destroy  this  body,  yet  in  my  flesh  shall 
I see  God;  whom  I shall  see  for  myself  and 
mine  eyes  shall  behold,  and  not  another. 

After  a short  pause  the  Chaplain  says  slowly  and 
solemnly : 

Chaplain — I heard  a voice  from  Heaven, 
saying:  ''Write,  from  henceforth  blessed  are 

the  dead  which  die  in  the  Lord ; yea,  saith  the 
spirit,  for  they  rest  from  their  labors.’’ 

W.  M.  (calling  up  the  Lodge) — Let  us  pray. 

Chaplain — Almighty  God,  infinite  in  wis- 
dom, mercy  and  goodness,  extend  to  us  the 
riches  of  Thy  everlasting  favor.  Make  us 
grateful  for  the  present  benefits,  and  crown  us 
with  immortal  life.  And  to  Thy  name  shall  be 
glory  forever.  Amen. 

So  mote  it  be. 

Here  some  brother  gives,  upon  a bell  hidden  from 
the  view  of  the  audience,  twelve  strokes  slowly  and  dis- 
tinctly, as  if  tolling.  The  Wardens  light  tapers  at  the 
corners  of  the  catafalque. 

J.  W.  (holding  up  the  bunch  of  white  flow- 
ers)— In  memory  of  our  departed  brethren,  I 
deposit  these  white  flowers,  emblematical  of 
that  pure  life  to  which  they  have  been  called, 
and  reminding  us  that,  as  these  children  of  an 
hour  will  drop  and  fade  away,  so  we,  too,  shall 
soon  follow  those  who  have  gone  before  us, 
and  inciting  us  so  to  the  brief  span  of  our  exist- 
ence that  we  may  leave  to  our  survivors  a 
sweet  savor  of  remembrance. 


26 


Junior  Warden  deposits  the  wreath  and  the  Grand 
Honors  are  given  once. 

S.  W.  (holding  up  wreath  of  white  flowers) 
— As  the  sun  sets  in  the  west  to  close  the  day 
and  herald  the  approach  of  night,  so  one  by 
one,  we  lay*  us  down  in  the  darkness  of  the 
tomb  to  wait  in  its  calm  repose  for  the  time 
when  the  heavens  shall  pass  away  as  a scroll, 
and  man,  standing  in  the  presence  of  the  In- 
finite, shall  realize  the  true  end  of  the  pilgrim- 
age here  below.  Let,  then,  these  flowers  be  to 
us  a symbol  of  remembrance  of  all  the  virtues 
of  our  brethren  who  have  preceded  us  to  the 
silent  land ; the  token  of  that  fraternal  alliance 
which  binds  us  while  on  earth,  and  which,  we 
hope,  will  finally  unite  us  in  heaven. 

The  Senior  Warden  deposits  the  wreath,  and  the 
Grand  Honors  are  given  twice. 

W.  M.  (holding  up  wreath  of  evergreen) — 
It  is  appointed  to  all  men  once  to  die,  and 
after  death  cometh  the  resurrection.  The  dust 
shall  return  to  the  earth  and  the  spirit  unto 
God,  who  gave  it.  Let  this  evergreen,  symbol 
of  our  faith  in  immortal  life,  remind  us  that  the 
dead  are  but  sleeping.  And  so,  trusting  in  the 
infinite  love  and  tender  mercy  of  Him  without 
whose  knowledge  not  even  a sparrow  falls,  let 
us  prepare  to  meet  them  where  there  is  no 
parting,  and  where,  with  them,  we  shall  enjoy 
eternal  rest. 

Master  deposits  the  evergreen.  The  Grand  Honors 
are  given  thrice,  all  repeating  together  at  the  last : 

Response — The  will  of  God  is  accomplished. 
Amen.  So  mote  it  be. 

Master  seats  the  Lodge  and  leads  the  following 
service  all  joining  in  the  response: 


27 


W.  M. — Oh,  give  thanks  unto  the  Lord,  for 
He  is  good. 

Response — For  His  mercy  endureth  forever. 

W.  M. — Oh,  give  thanks  to  the  God  of 
Gods. 

Response — For  His  mercy  endureth  forever. 

W.  M. — Oh,  give  thanks  to  the  Lord  of 
Lords. 

Response— For  His  mercy  endureth  forever. 

W.  M. — To  him  who  alone  doeth  great 
wonders. 

Response — For  His  mercy  endureth  forever. 

W.  M. — To  Him  that  by  wisdom  made  the 
h-eavens. 

Response — For  His  mercy  endureth  forever. 

W.  M. — To  Him  that  stretched  out  the 
earth  above  the  waters. 

Response — For  His  mercy  endureth  forever. 

W.  M. — To  Him  that  made  great  lights. 

Response — For  His  mercy  endureth  forever. 

W.  M. — The  sun  to  rule  by  day : 

Response — For  His  mercy  endureth  forever. 

W.  M. — The  moon  and  stars  to  rule  by 
night. 

Response — For  His  mercy  endureth  forever. 

W.  M. — Who  remembreth  us  in  our  low 
estate : 

Response — For  His  mercy  endureth  forever. 

W.  M. — Oh,  give  thanks  unto  the  God  of 
heaven : 

Response — For  His  mercy  endureth  forever. 

Psalm  cxxxvi : 1-9,  23,  26. 


28 


MUSIC— ODE. 

Unveil  thy  bosom,  faithful  tomb, 

Take  this  new  treasure  to  thy  trust; 

And  give  these  sacred  relics  room 
To  slumber  in  the  silent  dust. 

Nor  pain,  nor  grief,  nor  anxious  fear 
Invade  thy  bounds ; no  mortal  woes 

Can  reach  the  peaceful  sleeper  here. 

While  angels  watch  the  soft  repose. 

The  Master,  followed  by  the  Chaplain  and  Lodge 
officers  in  order,  and  then  the  members  of  the  Lodge, 
each  advancing  to  the  catafalque  separately  and  in 
silence,  takes  from  his  left  breast  the  sprig  of  evergreen 
and  lays  it  upon  the  catafalque,  each  resuming  his  seat 
as  he  has  deposited  the  sprig.  When  practicable,  how- 
ever, they  should  pass  in  single  file  between  the  Master 
and  the  catafalque,  each  dropping  thereon  his  sprig 
when  opposite  the  Master. 

The  following  may  now  be  said,  or  omitted,  at  the 
option  of  the  Master: 

Chaplain  (advancing  to  the  catafalque  and 
facing  the  audience) — But  some  man  will  say: 
How  are  the  dead  raised  up,  and  with  what 
body  to  they  come?  Thou  fool,  that  which 
thou  sowest,  is  not  quickened  except  it  die; 
and  that  which  thou  sowest,  thou  sowest  not 
that  body  that  shall  be,  but  bare  grain ; it 
may  chance,  of  wheat  or  some  other  grain ; but 
God  giveth  it  a body  as  it  hath  pleased  him, 
and  to  every  seed  his  own  body.  All  flesh  is 
not  the  same  flesh,  but  there  is  one  kind  of  flesh 
of  men,  another  flesh  of  beasts,  another  of 
fishes,  and  another  of  birds.  There  are  also 
celestial  bodies. 

Response  (by  all) — And  bodies  terrestrial. 

C. — But  the  glory  of  the  celestial  is  one. 

Response — And  the  glory  of  the  terrestrial 
is  another. 


29 


C. — There  is  one  glory  of  the  sun  and  an- 
other glory  of  the  moon,  and  another  glory  of 
the  stars. 

Response — For  one  star  differeth  from  an- 
other star  in  glory. 

C. — So  also  is  the  resurrection  of  the  dead. 
It  is  sown  in  corruption. 

Response — It  is  raised  in  incorruption. 

C. — It  is  sown  in  dishonor. 

Response — It  is  raised  in  glory. 

C. — It  is  sown  in  weakness. 

Response — It  is  raised  in  power. 

C. — It  is  sown  a natural  body. 

Response — It  is  raised  a spiritual  body. 

C. — There  is  a natural  body  and  there  is  a 
spiritual  body;  and  so  it  is  written.  The  first 
man,  Adam,  was  made  a living  soul. 

Response — The  last  Adam  was  made  a 
quickening  spirit. 

C. — Howbeit,  that  was  not  first,  which  is 
spiritual,  but  that  which  is  natural ; 

Response — And  afterward  that  which  is 
spiritual. 

C. — The  first  man  is  of  the  earth,  earthy. 

Response — The  second  man  is  the  Lord 
from  Heaven. 

C. — As  is  the  earthy,  such  are  they  also 
that  are  earthy. 

Response — And  as  is  the  heavenly,  such  are 
they  also  that  are  heavenly. 

C. — And  as  we  have  borne  the  image  of  the 
earthy. 

Response — We  shall  also  bear  the  image  of 
the  heavenly. 

C. — Now  this  I say,  brethren,  that  flesh  and 
blood  cannot  inherit  the  kingdom  of  God ; 


30 


neither  doth  corruption  inherit  incorruption. 
Behold,  I show  you  a mystery.  We  shall  not 
all  sleep,  but  we  shall  be  changed ; in  a mo- 
ment, in  the  twinkling  of  an  eye,  at  the  last 
trump;  for  the  trumpet  shall  sound,  and  the 
dead  shall  be  raised  incorruptible,  and  we  shall 
be  changed.  For  this  corruptible  must  put  on 
incorruption. 

Response — And  this  mortal  must  put  on 
immortality. 

C. — So,  when  this  corruptible  shall  have 
put  on  incorruption,  and  this  mortal  shall  have 
put  on  immortality,  then  shall  be  brought  to 
pass  the  saying  that  is  written. 

Response— Death  is  swallowed  up  in  vic- 
tory. 

C. — Oh,  death,  where  is  thy  sting? 

Response — Oh,  grave,  where  is  thy  victory? 

C. — Glory  be  to  God  on  high ; on  earth 
peace,  good  will  toward  men.  As  it  was  in  the 
beginning,  is  now  and  ever  shall  be,  world 
without  end.  Amen. 

Response — So  mote  it  be. 

Here  solemn  instrumental  music  is  softly  played, 
and,  when  practicable,  the  lights  are  gradually  lowered. 
They  may  be  put  out  entirely,  the  four  tapers  still  burn- 
ing at  the  catafalque.  When  the  lights  are  lowered  or 
put  out,  the  Master,  then  the  Chaplain,  then  the  Senior 
Warden,  then  the  Junior  Warden,  gather  around  the 
catafalque ; then  all  the  brethren  likewise,  as  silently  as 
possible ; each  kneeling  upon  his  right  knee.  The  music 
in  the  meantime  continues.  If  not  already  done,  the 
sand  in  the  urn  is  saturated  with  alcohol,  which  is 
then  lighted.  The  music  ceases,  and  an  interval  of  pro- 
found silence  is  observed ; the  audience  remaining  in 
their  seats,  the  brethren  kneeling;  after  which  the  Mas- 
ter leads  and  all  join  in  the  following  prayer: 

All — Our  Father,  which  art  in  heaven,  hal- 
lowed be  Thy  name ; Thy  kingdom  come.  Thy 


31 


will  be  done  on  earth  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give 
us  this  day  our  daily  bread,  and  forgive  us  our 
trespasses  as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass 
against  us.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation, 
but  deliver  us  from  evil,  for  Thine  is  the  king- 
dom. and  the  power  and  the  glory,  forever. 
Amen. 

Response — So  mote  it  be. 

If  the  services  are  held  in  the  Lodge  room,  and  none 
but  Masons  are  present,  the  Master  then  resumes  his 
station.  Then  the  Chaplain  does  likewise,  then  the 
Senior  Warden,  then  the  Junior  Warden,  then  the 
brethren.  The  Lodge  is  then  closed  in  the  usual  form. 

If  the  services  are  at  the  Lodge  room,  and  any 
others  than  Masons  are  present,  the  Master,  while  the 
lights  are  being  lowered,  announces  that  at  the  conclu- 
sion of  the  prayer,  the  public  will  quietly  retire.  The 
brethren  remain  upon  their  knees  until  all  are  gone. 
Then  they  rise  up  as  before  indicated,  and  close  the 
Lodge  as  usual. 

If  these  services  are  at  the  Church  or  public  hall, 
and  others  than  Masons  are  present,  after  a short  inter- 
val at  the  conclusion  of  the  Lord’s  prayer,  the  Master 
will  rise  and  quietly  and  silently  leave  the  building,  and 
the  Chaplain  following  him,  then  the  Treasurer,  then 
the  Secretar}^,  then  the  Senior  Deacon,  then  the  Junior 
Deacon,  then  the  brethren,  then  the  members,  one  by 
one,  and  last,  the  Tiler.  After  all  are  gone,  the  lights 
are  turned  up,  and  some  person,  previously  instructed, 
announces  the  conclusion  of  the  services.  In  the  mean- 
time, a procession  is  formed  outside  and  marches  to  the 
Lodge  room  and  the  Lodge  is  closed  in  usual  form. 


32 


CEREMONIES  OF  CONSTITUTING 

AND 

CONSECRATING  A LODGE. 


On  the  day  and  hour  appointed  for  consecrating, 
constituting  and  dedicating  a new  Lodge,  the  brethren 
thereof  will  assemble  in  the  Lodge  room. 

The  Grand  Master  and  his  officers  (or  the  brother 
authorized  by  the  Grand  Master  for  the  purpose,  with 
such  other  brethren  as  he  shall  call  to  his  assistance), 
meet  at  the  same  time  in  some  place  convenient  to  the 
Lodge  room. 

The  officers  of  the  new  Lodge  are  then  to  wait  upon 
the  Grand  Master,  state  that  they  are  the  officers  named 
in  the  charter,  and  ask  for  the  Grand  Master’s  pleasure. 
The  Grand  Master  will  request  the  Deputy  Grand  Mas- 
ter to  make  the  necessary  examination,  on  which  duty 
he  will  immediately  enter,  and  on  its  completion,  the 
proposed  officers  of  the  new  Lodge  will  return  to  the 
Lodge  room. 

The  officers  and  charter  members  of  the  new  Lodge 
are  then  to  send  a messenger  to  the  Grand  Master,  who 
will  address  him  as  follows : 

Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master: 

The  officers  and  brethren  of Lodge 

No have  instructed  me  to  inform  you 

that  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of 
Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the  State  of 
Michigan,  having  granted  them  a charter  to 
open  and  hold  a Lodge  in  the  city  (or  village) 

of , they  are  desirous  that  the  Lodge 

should  be  duly  consecrated,  constituted  and 
dedicated,  and  the  officers  thereof  duly  in- 
stalled, agreeably  to  the  ancient  usages  and 
customs  of  the  craft;  for  which  purpose  they 
are  now  met  in  the  Lodge  room,  by  order  of 


33 


the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master,  and  await 
his  pleasure. 

The  Grand  Master  will  answer: 

My  brother,  inform  the  officers  and  breth- 
ren of Lodge,  No , that  the 

Grand  Master  and  his  officers  will  forthwith 
attend  them  to  comply  with  their  desires. 

The  messenger  returns  to  the  lodge  room  and 
makes  his  report,  and  the  brethren  prepare  for  the  re- 
ception of  the  Grand  Officers. 

The  Lodge  or  floor  cloth  is  to  be  placed  near  the 
center  of  the  Lodge  room,  with  the  three  vases  or  pitch- 
ers thereon,  containing  the  elements  of  consecration — 
corn,  wine  and  oil. 

The  room  will  be  opened  and  untiled,  all  the  breth- 
ren present  seated ; the  chairs  of  the  officers  remaining 
vacant  ; and  the  officers  and  the  charter  members  of  the 
new  Lodge  in  the  northeast  part  of  the  room. 

While  the  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  enter  the 
Lodge  room,  instrumental  music  may  be  performed. 

When  the  Grand  Officers  enter  the  room,  the 
brethren  will  rise  and  remain  standing,  until  otherwise 
directed. 

The  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master  and  his  Grand 
Officers  proceed  to  the  East,  the  Grand  Master  taking 
that  station,  the  other  Grand  Officers  on  the  second  step 
from  the  floor  in  front  of  the  station,  facing  the  West. 

The  Grand  Master  will  direct  the  Grand  Officers  to 
take  their  respective  stations  and  places.  The  Grand 
Lodge  will  then  be  opened. 

When  these  ceremonies  are  public,  the  Grand  Lodge 
must  be  opened  outside  of  the  Lodge  room. 

PRAYER. 

May  the  loving  care  of  the  Great  Architect 
of  the  Universe  be  with  us  now  at  our  begin- 
ning, and  teach  us  so  to  govern  ourselves  here 
in  our  life  and  work,  that  we  may  finally  dwell 
with  Him  in  that  bliss  which  shall  never  have 
an  end.  Amen. 

Response  by  the  brethren — So  mote  it  be. 


34 


After  the  prayer  the  brethren  will  sing  this  or  some 
other  anthem : “ Unto  Thee,  Great  God,  Belong.” 

Unto  Thee,  Great  God  belong 
Mystic  rites  and  sacred  song; 

Lowly  bending  at  Thy  shrine. 

We  hail  Thy  majesty  divine. 

Glorious  Architect  above, 

Source  of  light  and  source  of  love. 

Here  Thy  light  and  love  prevail; 

Hail ! Almighty  Master,  Hail ! 

The  Grand  Master  will  then  direct  the  officers  and 
members  of  the  new  Lodge  to  form  in  an  oblong  square 
in  front  of  the  Grand  Slaster,  when  the  Worshipful 
Master-elect  will  address  the  Grand  Master  as  follows : 

Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master: 

A number  of  brethren,  duly  instructed  in 
the  mysteries  of  Freemasonry,  having  a desire 
to  form  a Lodge,  have,  for  that  purpose,  made 
application  to  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand 
Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the 
State  of  Michigan,  who  have  granted  them  a 
regular  charter.  The  brethren  are  now  in  at- 
tendance, according  to  your  instructions,  and 
are  desirous  that  their  Lodge  should  be  conse- 
crated, constituted  and  dedicated,  and  their  of- 
ficers installed,  agreeably  to  the  ancient  usages 
and  customs  of  the  fraternity. 

The  Grand  Master  will  answer: 

Worshipful  Brother: 

The  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  the 
State  of  Michigan  having  been  pleased  to  grant 
a charter  to  the  brethren  of  this  new  Lodge, 
conferring  on  them  the  rights  and  privileges  of 
a regularly  constituted  Lodge,  I shall  proceed, 
with  pleasure,  to  comply  with  their  request. 

And  then  addressing  the  Grand  Secretary: 


Brother  Grand  Secretary : 

Read  the  charter  granted  by  the  Grand 
Lodge  for  the  constitution  of Lodge, 


The  Grand  Secretary  will  then  read  the  charter. 

When  the  charter  shall  have  been  read,  the  brethren 
will  sing  this,  or  some  other  ode : “ Hail ! Mysterious 
Glorious  Science.” 

Hail ! Mysterious,  Glorious  Science, 

Which  to  discord  bids  defiance. 

Harmony  alone  reigns  here. 

Come,  let’s  sing  to  Him  that  raised  us 
From  the  rugged  path  that  mazed  us, 

To  the  light  that  we  revere. 

Hail ! Mysterious,  Glorious  Science, 

Which  to  discord  bids  defiance. 

The  Lodge  is  then  uncovered  by  the  Grand  Deacons. 

^ CONSECRATION. 

The  Grand  Chaplain  will  then  deliver  the  following 
CONSFXRATION  PRAYER. 

Great  Architect  of  the  LFniverse!  Maker 
and  Ruler  of  all  worlds ! Deign,  from  Thy 
celestial  temple,  from  realms  of  light  and  glory, 
to  bless  us  in  all  the  purposes  of  our  present 
assembly. 

Permit  us,  Oh  Thou  Author  of  all  Light  and 
Life,  to  erect  this  Lodge,  and  now  solemnly  to 
consecrate  it  to  the  honor  of  Thy  name.  Amen. 

Response  by  the  brethren — So  mote  it  be. 

The  Grand  Master,  Deputy  Grand  Master  and 
Grand  Wardens  take  their  stations  around  the  lodge  or 
floor  cloth ; the  Grand  Master  and  Deputy  Grand  Mas- 
ter in  the  East,  the  Senior  Grand  Warden  in  the  West, 
and  the  Junior  Grand  Warden  in  the  South,  in  front  of 
the  vessels  containing  the  corn,  wine  and  oil.  The 


36 


Deputy  Grand  Master  will  take  up  the  vessel  of  corn, 
the  Senior  Grand  Warden  the  vessel  of  wine,  the  Junior 
Grand  Warden  the  vessel  of  oil,  and  each  in  turn  pre- 
sents his  vessel  to  the  Grand  Master,  who  sprinkles  the 
elements  of  consecration  on  the  Lodge. 

( Continuation  of  Consecration  Prayer.) 

Be  pleased,  O Lord,  to  vouchsafe  that  as  we 
now  sprinkle  the  elements  of  consecration  over 
this  Lodge,  they  may  be  the  harbingers  of  Thy 
bounties  to  the  brethren,  and  that  they  and  all 
of  us  may  be  blessed  by  Thy  goodness  with  the 
corn  of  nourishment,  the  wine  of  refreshment, 
and  the  oil  of  joy. 

Grant,  O Lord,  that  those  who  are  now 
about  to  be  invested  with  the  government  of 
this  Lodge  may  be  indued  with  wisdom  to  in- 
struct the  brethren  in  all  their  duties. 

May  brotherly  love,  charity,  and  truth  al- 
ways prevail  amongst  the  members  of  this  new 
Lodge,  and  may  these  bonds  of  union  ever  con- 
tinue to  strengthen  the  Lodges  throughout  the 
world. 

Bless  all  our  brethren,  wherever  dispersed, 
and  grant  speedy  relief  to  all  who  are  op- 
pressed or  distressed. 

We  affectionately  commend  to  Thee  all  the 
members  of  Thy  whole  family.  May  they  in- 
crease in  the  knowledge  of  Thee,  and  in  the 
love  of  each  other. 

Finally,  may  we  finish  all  our  work  here  be- 
low with  Thine  approbation,  and  then  have  our 
transition  from  this  earthly  abode  to  Thy 
heavenly  temple  above,  there  to  enjoy  light, 
glory,  and  bliss,  ineffable  and  eternal.  Amen. 

Response  by  the  brethren — So  mote  it  be. 


37 

DEDICATION. 

The  Grand  Master  then  dedicates  the  Lodge  as  fol- 
lows : 

To  the  memory  of  the  Holy  Saints  John,  we 
dedicate  this  Lodge.  May  every  brother  revere 
their  character  and  imitate  their  virtues.  Amen. 

Response  by  the  brethren — So  mote  it  be. 

Here  solemn  music  may  be  introduced. 

The  Grand  Master,  Deputy  Grand  Master,  Senior 
and  Junior  Grand  Wardens,  will  then  return  to  their 
respective  stations. 

The  Grand  Master  will  then  say : 

Brethren,  we  shall  now  proceed,  according 
to  ancient  usage,  to  constitute  these  brethren 
into  a regular  Lodge,  and  to  install  their  offi- 
cers. 

A piece  of  music  is  performed  while  the  brethren 
of  the  new  Lodge  advance  in  procession  to  salute  the 
Grand  Lodge  with  their  hands  crossed  upon  their 
breasts  as  they  pass.  Then  they  take  their  places  as 
they  were. 

CONSTITUTION. 

The  Grand  Master  then  rises,  calls  up  the  brethren, 
and  constitutes  the  new  Lodge  in  the  form  following: 

In  the  name  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand 
Lodge,  I now  constitute  and  form  you,  my  be- 
loved brethren,  into  a regular  Lodge  of  Free 
and  Accepted  Masons.  From  henceforth  I em- 
power 3^ou  to  meet  as  a regular  Lodge,  consti- 
tuted in  conformity  to  the  rites  of  our  order, 
and  the  charges  of  our  ancient  and  honorable 
fraternity;  and  may  the  Supreme  Architect  of 
the  LIniverse  direct,  counsel  and  prosper  you 
in  all  your  doings.  Amen. 

Response — So  mote  it  be. 

The  public  Grand  Honors  are  then  given. 


3S 


The  Grand  Marshal  then  makes  the  following 

PROCLAMATION. 

In  the  name  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand 
Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the 
State  of  Michigan,  I now  proclaim  this  Lodge, 

by  the  name  of Lodge,  No 

to  be  legally  consecrated,  dedicated  and  consti- 
tuted, in  ample  form,  this day  of 

A.  D.  19 , A.  L.  58.  ..  . 

The  Grand  Chaplain  now  makes  the  following 

BENEDICTION. 

Almighty  Father  of  the  Universe,  whose 
throne  is  the  high  heavens,  and  the  earth  Thy 
footstool,  who  takest  cognizance  of  the  doings 
of  Thy  intelligent  creatures,  may  we  ever  look 
unto  Thee  as  our  heavenly  counsellor,  to  guide 
and  direct  us  in  the  paths  that  lead  to  truth  and 
holiness,  and  regard  Thee  as  the  true  source  of 
happiness. 

May  the  favor  of  Thy  blessing  rest  upon  us 
and  all  regular  assemblies  of  Masons.  May  it 
be  our  constant  aim  to  emulate  each  other  in 
the  performance  of  good  works  in  behalf  of  our 
fellow-beings  for  the  promotion  of  our  present 
and  our  future  happiness. 

May  every  moral  and  social  virtue  prevail, 
and  thereby  more  firmly  cement  us  in  the 
bonds  of  brotherly  love ; to  the  glory  and  honor 
of  Thy  great  and  holy  name.  Amen. 

Response — So  mote  it  be. 


39 


INSTALLATION  OF  OFFICERS 
OF  A LODGE. 


After  the  constitution,  consecration  and  dedication 
of  the  new  Lodge,  its  officers  must  be  installed  by  the 
Grand  Master  or  his  acting  representative.  This  should 
be  done  with  the  following  ceremonies,  which  should 
also  be  used  for  the  installation  of  officers  of  old  Lodges, 
(with,  of  course,  the  necessary  changes  as  indicated 
herein.)  When  officers  of  old  Lodges  are  installed,  the 
preceding  ceremonies  of  Constitution,  Consecration  and 
Dedication  are  omitted. 

It  is  the  prerogative,  as  well  as  the  duty,  of  every 
retiring  Worshipful  Master  to  install  his  successor.  He 
may,  however,  delegate  this  duty  to  some  other  well 
informed  Past  Master. 

The  installing  officers  represent  the  respective  of- 
ficers of  Grand  Lodge.  When  the  installation  is  private, 
the  Lodge  should  be  open  in  the  Third  degree.  When  it 
is  public,  the  Lodge  should  be  opened  on  the  Third  de- 
gree and  placed  in  charge  of  its  Marshal,  under  whose 
direction  the  Lodge  proceeds  to  the  place  selected  for 
the  installation  ceremonies,  if  at  a different  place  from 
the  Lodge  room,  and  at  the  conclusion  of  such  cere- 
monies, enough  of  the  officers  and  members  should  re- 
turn to  the  Lodge  room  to  properly  close  the  Lodge. 

After  the  officers  have  been  properly  seated,  the 
Installing  Officer  says : 

Brethren,  we  are  about  to  install  the  officers 

elect  of Lodge,  No Free  and 

Accepted  Masons,  located  at Mich- 

igan. Brother  Secretary,  read  the  list  of  the 
ofificers-elect. 

The  Secretary  then  reads  the  names  of  the  officers- 
elect. 

Installing  Officer — Worshipful  Grand  Mar- 
shal, direct  the  retiring  officers  to  deliver  up 
their  insignia  of  office. 

Grand  Marshal — The  retiring  officers 


40 


this  Lodge  will  deliver  up  their  jewels  and 
aprons  in  the  East. 

To  appropriate  music,  the  Grand  Marshal  proceeds 
around  the  room  from  West  to  East,  collecting  the  sev- 
eral retiring  officers  in  the  inverse  order  of  their  rank, 
who  proceed  around  the  Lodge  room  to  the  East,  where 
their  jewels  and  aprons  are  deposited  on  the  platform, 
in  order;  and  then  under  direction  of  the  Grand  Mar- 
shal, the  officers-elect  proceed  once  more  around  the 
Lodge  room  to  the  South,  where  they  turn  North  and 
form  a line  in  the  rear  of  the  altar,  about  six  or  eight 
feet  away  from  it.  The  retiring  officers  here  drop  out, 
and  the  newly  elected  officers  not  already  in  the  line 
quickly  and  quietly  take  their  places. 

Grand  Marshal — (Most)  Worshipful  Sir,  I 
present  to  be  installed  as  officers  of 


Lodge,  No..  F.  & A.  M.,  for  the  ensuing 

Masonic  year,  the  following  persons,  who  have 
been  duly  chosen  to  their  respective  offices; 

Brother to  be  Worshipful  Master; 

Brother to  be  Senior  Warden,  (etc., 

through  the  list.) 


Installing  Officer — Brethren  of  

Lodge,  you  here  behold  these  brothers,  each  of 
whom,  having  been  duly  chosen,  now  declares 
himself  ready  for  installation.  If  any  of  you 
know  of  any  valid  reason  why  he  should  not  be 
installed,  state  your  objection  now,  or  else  for- 
ever after  hold  your  peace.  (Pause.)  There 
being  no  objection,  I shall  now  proceed  to  the 
installation. 

Installing  Officer — Brethren,  the  first  les- 
son we  are  taught  in  Masonry  is  that  no  man 
should  enter  upon  any  great  and  important 
undertaking  without  first  invoking  the  bless- 
ing of  Deity.  Let  us,  therefore,  before  pro- 
ceeding further  with  this  important  ceremony, 
invoke  the  blessing  of  the  Supreme  Architect 
of  the  Universe. 


41 


The  Installing  Officer  then  calls  tip  the  Lodge,  while 
the  Chaplain  delivers  the  following,  or  some  other  ap- 
propriate prayer : 

Most  Holy  and  Glorious  God,  we  approach 
Thee  with  reverence,  and  implore  Thy  blessing 
on  these  brothers  appointed  to  preside  over  this 
Lodge.  Fill  their  hearts  with  Thy  fear,  that 
their  tongues  and  actions  may  proclaim  Thy 
glor3^  Make  them  steadfast  in  Thy  service. 
Grant  them  firmness  of  mind.  Animate  their 
hearts  and  strengthen  their  endeavors.  May 
they  teach  Thy  judgments,  and  Thy  laws,  and 
be  Thy  true  and  faithful  servants.  Bless  them, 
O Lord,  and  bless  the  work  of  their  hands.  Ac- 
cept us  in  mercy.  Hear  thou  our  prayer  and 
grant  our  earnest  supplications.  Amen. 

Response  by  the  brethren — So  mote  it  be. 

Installing  Officer — Worshipful  Grand  Mar- 
shal, present  the  Worshipful  Master-elect  at 
the  altar  for  installation. 

The  Grand  Marshal,  taking  the  Master-elect  by  the 
arm,  advances  to  the  altar  and  says : 

(Most)  Worshipful  Sir,  I present  to  you 

my  worthy  brother , the  Worshipful 

Master-elect  of  this  Lodge,  to  receive  at  your 
hands  the  rite  of  installation,  the  better  to 
qualify  him  for  the  discharge  of  the  duties  of 
his  important  office.  I know  him  to  be  of  good 
morals  and  of  great  skill,  true  and  trusty;  and 
as  he  is  a lover  of  our  fraternity  wheresoever 
dispersed  over  the  face  of  the  earth,  I doubt 
not  that  he  will  discharge  his  duties  with  fidel- 
ity, with  honor  to  himself  and  with  profit  to 
the  craft. 

Installing  Officer — Brother from 

time  immemorial,  it  has  been  an  established 
custom  p,mong  Free  and  Accepted  Masons,  in 


42 


each  Lodge,  once  a year,  at  a stated  period,  to 
elect,  from  among  those  brethren  who  have 
served  in  a chartered  Lodge  as  Warden,  an  ex- 
pert craftsman,  to  preside  over  them  as  Wor- 
shipful Master.  He  must  have  been  initiated, 
passed  and  raised  in  the  three  established  de- 
grees, he  must  be  a lover  of  our  noble  science, 
and  have  filled  the  office  of  Warden.  He  ought 
to  be  of  good  report,  true,  trusty,  and  held  in 
high  esteem  by  his  brethren  and  fellows.  He 
ought  to  be  exemplary  in  his  conduct,  courte- 
ous in  his  manners,  easy  in  his  address,  but 
steady  and  pure  in  principle,  zealous  for  the 
welfare  of  his  Lodge,  able  and  willing  to  un- 
dertake the  management  of  the  work,  and  well 
skilled  in  the  Ancient  Charges,  Regulations, 
and  Landmarks.  Will  you,  my  brother,  under- 
take the  duties  of  Worshipful  Master  of  this 
Lodge,  under  these  requirements? 

W.  M. -elect. — I will. 

Grand  Master — Then  I shall  direct  your  at- 
tention to  the  Ancient  Charges  and  Regula- 
tions, which  point  out  the  duty  of  the  Master 
of  each  Lodge,  and  to  each  of  which  your  un- 
qualified assent  is  required. 

T.  You  agree  to  be  a good  man,  and  true, 
and  strictly  to  obey  the  moral  law? 

Answer : I do. 

2.  You  agree  to  be  a peaceful  citizen  and 
cheerfully  to  conform  to  the  laws  of  the  coun- 
try in  which  you  reside? 

Answ^er : I do. 

3.  You  promise  not  to  be  concerned  in 
plots  and  conspiracies  against  the  government, 
but  patiently  to  submit  to  the  law  and  the  con- 
stituted authorities? 


43 


Answer : I do. 

4.  You  agree  to  pay  a proper  respect  to 
the  civil  magistrate,  to  work  diligently,  live 
creditably  and  act  honorably  by  all  men? 

Answer : I do. 

5.  You  agree  to  hold  in  veneration  the 
original  Rulers  and  Patrons  of  the  Order  of 
Masonry  and  their  regular  successors,  supreme 
and  subordinate,  according  to  their  stations, 
and  to  submit  to  the  awards  and  regulations 
of  your  brethren,  in  Lodge  convened,  in  every 
case  consistent  with  the  Constitutions  of  the 
order  ? 

Answer : I do. 

6.  You  agree  to  avoid  private  piques  and 
quarrels  and  to  guard  against  intemperance 
and  excess? 

Answer : I do. 

7.  You  agree  to  be  cautious  in  your  be- 
haviour, courteous  to  your  brethren,  and  faith- 
ful to  your  lodge? 

Answer : I do. 

8.  You  promise  to  respect  genuine  breth- 
ren and  to  discountenance  impostors,  and  all 
dissenters  from  the  original  plan  of  Masonry? 

Answer : I do. 

9.  You  agree  to  promote  the  general  good 
of  society,  to  cultivate  the  social  virtues,  and 
to  propagate  the  knowledge  of  the  mystic  art? 

Answer : I do. 

10.  You  promise  to  pay  homage  to  the 
Grand  Master  for  the  time  being,  and  to  his 
officers,  when  duly  installed ; and  strictly  to 
conform  to  every  edict  of  the  Grand  Lodge  or 
general  assembly  of  Masons,  that  is  not  sub- 
versive of  the  principles  and  ground-work  of 
Masonr}^? 


44 


Answer : I do. 

11.  You  promise  a regular  attendance  on 
the  committees  and  communications  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  on  receiving  proper  notice,  and 
to  perform  all  the  duties  of  Masonry  on  con- 
venient occasions? 

Answer : I do. 

12.  You  admit  that  no  new  Lodge  can  be 
formed  without  the  permission  of  the  Grand 
Lodge,  and  that  no  countenance  be  given  to 
any  irregular  Lodge,  or  to  any  person  clandes- 
tinely initiated  therein,  being  contrary  to  the 
ancient  charges  of  the  fraternity? 

Answer : I do. 

13.  You  admit  that  no  person  can  be  reg- 
ularly made  a Mason  in,  nor  admitted  to,  any 
regular  Lodge,  without  previous  notice,  and 
due  inquiry  into  his  character? 

Answer : I do. 

14.  You  agree  that  no  visitors  shall  be  re- 
ceived into  your  Lodge  without  due  examina- 
tion and  producing  proper  vouchers  of  their 
having  been  initiated  into  a regular  Lodge? 

Answer : I do. 

These,  my  brother,  are  the  regulations  of 
Free  and  Accepted  Masons.  Do  you  submit 
to  these  charges,  and  promise  to  support  these 
regulations,  as  Masters  have  done  in  all  ages 
before  you? 

Answer : I do. 

Installing  Officer — Having,  by  your  con- 
sent to  our  established  regulations,  signified 
your  intention  to  well  and  worthily  administer 
the  important  duties  of  your  high  office,  you 
will  advance  to  the  altar,  kneel  on  both  knees, 
and  say,  I,  pronounce  your  own  name  in  full. 


45 


and  repeat  after  me,  in  the  presence  of  Al- 
mighty God  and  these  witnesses,  do  hereby 
solemnly  promise,  that  I will  accept  the  office 

of  Worshipful  Master  of Lodge,  No , 

Free  and  Accepted  Masons,  and  the  duties  of 
that  high  office,  faithfully,  zealously,  and  im- 
partially administer,  to  the  best  of  my  ability 
for  the  ensuing  twelve  months,  and  until  a 
successor  shall  have  been  duly  elected  and  in- 
stalled in  my  stead. 

I further  promise  that  I will  not,  during  my 
term  of  office,  nor  at  any  other  time  that  the 
Lodge  shall  be  under  my  direction,  permit  or 
suffer  any  deviation  from  the  established 
usages  and  customs  of  the  fraternity. 

Further,  that  I will  not  perform,  nor  cause 
nor  suffer  to  be  performed,  in  this  Lodge,  any 
rite  or  ceremony  contrary  to  or  subversive  of, 
our  ancient  institution ; but  that  I will  support, 
uphold,  and  maintain,  pure  and  unsullied,  the 
genuine  tenets  and  principles  of  the  craft. 

Further,  that  I will  observe  and  to  the  ut- 
most of  my  power  and  ability,  strictly  enforce 
obedience  to  those  charges  and  regulations  to 
which  I have  already  given  my  assent,  to  the 
by-laws  of  this  Lodge,  and  the  constitution, 
laws,  edicts,  ritual  and  ceremonies  of  the 
Grand  Lodge,  and  that  I will,  in  all  things,  con- 
scientiously discharge  my  duties  as  a ruler  in 
the  craft  and  as  Worshipful  Master  of  this 
Lodge. 

So  help  me  God  and  keep  me  steadfast  in 
this,  my  solemn  obligation. 

Installing  Officer — You  will  now  arise  and 
be  invested  with  the  insignia  of  your  office  and 
the  furniture  and  implements  of  your  Lodge. 


The  various  implements  of  our  profession 
are  all  emblematical  of  the  virtues  which 
should  characterize  your  daily  life,  and  to 
them  your  attention  cannot  be  too  frequently 
directed. 

The  Holy  Bible,  that  great  light  in  Ma- 
sonry, will  guide  you  to  all  truth ; it  will  direct 
your  paths  to  the  Temple  of  Happiness  and 
point  out  to  you  the  whole  duty  of  man. 

The  square  is  the  distinguishing  jewel  of 
your  office.  It  is  an  instrument  made  use  of  by 
operative  Masons  to  square  their  work.  But 
as  Free  and  Accepted  Masons,  making  use  of 
the  tools  of  the  operative  craft  as  symbols  for 
our  moral  instruction,  we  are  taught  to  make 
use  of  it  for  the  more  noble  and  glorious  pur- 
pose of  squaring  our  actions  by  the  square  of 
virtue. 

The  compasses  enables  the  operative  work- 
man with  accuracy  and  precision  to  determine 
the  limits  and  proportions  of  the  several  parts 
of  his  work.  As  Free  and  Accepted  Masons, 
it  teaches  us  to  limit  our  desires  in  every  sta- 
tion, that,  rising  to  eminence  by  merit,  we  may 
live  respected  and  die  regretted. 

The  book  of  Constitutions  you  are  to  search 
at  all  times.  In  obedience  to  our  regulations, 
cause  it  to  be  read  in  your  Lodge,  that  none 
may  pretend  ignorance  of  the  excellent  pre- 
cepts it  enjoins. 

You  now  receive  in  your  charge  the  charter 
or  warrant  from  the  Grand  Lodge  of  this  juris- 
diction, which  alone  gives  authority  to  this 
Lodge  to  meet  and  work,  and  without  the 
presence  of  which  no  meeting  of  the  Lodge 
would  be  lawful.  This  you  are  carefully  to 
preserve.  In  no  case  should  it  ever  be  out  of 


47 


your  immediate  control,  until,  at  the  expiration 
of  your  term,  you  shall  have  duly  transmitted 
it  to  your  successor  in  office. 

I need  not  remind  you,  my  brother,  that 
charters  have  passed  through  the  hands  of 
many  talented,  highly  esteemed  and  distin- 
guished men  and  brethren,  and  in  committing 
this  charter  to  your  care,  we  feel  assured  that 
its  value  will  be  properly  appreciated. 

I also  confide  to  your  care  the  by-laws  of 
your  Lodge,  which  regulate  the  details  of  its 
own  peculiar  and  private  affairs.  These  by- 
laws you  are  always  to  see  carefully  and 
punctually  executed.  You  will  now  be  con- 
ducted to  the  East. 

To  appropriate  music,  the  Grand  Marshal  conducts 
the  Worshipful  Master-elect  to  the  East. 

The  Installing  Officer  then  calls  up  the  Lodge  and 
says : 

Worshipful  Master,  behold  your  brethren ; 
brethren,  behold  your  Worshipful  Master. 
Brethren,  together  attend  the  private  Grand 
Honors. 

The  Grand  Honors  are  then  given,  after  which  the 
Installing  Officer  seats  the  Lodge. 

Here  may  be  sung  a selection  of  music. 

Installing  Officer — Worshipful  Grand  Mar- 
shal, cause  the  other  officers-elect  to  advance  to 
the  altar,  that  they  may  together  take  upon 
themselves  an  oath  or  obligation  of  fidelity  in 
the  trust  which  they  are  about  to  assume. 

Grand  Marshal — The  officers-elect  will  ad- 
vance to  the  altar  and  kneel  on  both  knees. 

Installing  Qfficer  then  says : 

Brethren,  together  repeat  after  me  the 
oath  of  fidelity : ''  To  the  high  purposes  of 


48 


universal  Masonry,  to  Brotherly  Love,  Relief 
and  Truth,  to  the  upbuilding  of  this  Lodge,  the 
promotion  of  harmony  among  its  membership 
and  the  realization  of  its  highest  ideals  of 
character  and  of  life ; to  the  stretching  forth 
of  our  hands  to  aid  and  support  a falling 
brother,  and  to  the  vindication  of  his  character 
behind  his  back  as  well  as  before  his  face,  we 
here  and  now  pledge  anew  our  most  earnest 
and  unceasing  efiforts/’  Amen. 

Response  by  brethren — So  mote  it  be. 

After  repeating  the  oath,  the  officers  rise  and  re- 
sume their  positions  in  the  rear  of  the  altar. 

Installing  Officer — Worshipful  Grand  Mar- 
shal, present  the  several  officers-elect  in  order 
for  their  installation. 

The  Grand  Marshal  then,  in  order,  takes  each  of- 
ficer-elect hy  the  arm,  advances  with  him  to  the  altar, 
and  introduces  him  in  the  following  formula : 

(Most)  Worshipful  Sir.  I now  present 

Brother -elect  of  this  Lodge,  for 

installation. 

The  Installing  Officer  then  installs  each  officer  in 
turn,  the  officer  being  invested  with  the  insignia  of  his 
office  by  the  Grand  Marshal,  and,  after  the  installation, 
the  officer  is  conducted  to  his  station  by  the  Grand  Mar- 
shal. 

The  Senior  Warden. 

Brother having  been  duly  elected 

Senior  Warden  of  this  Lodge,  you  are  now 
invested  Avith  the  jewel  of  your  office,  which 
is  the  Level. 

The  Level  demonstrates  that  we  are  de- 
scended from  the  same  stock,  partake  of  the 
same  nature,  and  share  the  same  hopes,  and, 
though  distinctions  among  men  are  necessary 
to  preserve  subordination,  and  resulting  order, 


49 


yet  no  eminence  of  station  should  make  us  for- 
get that  we  are  brethren;  and  that  he  who  is 
placed  on  the  lowest  spoke  of  fortune’s  wheel 
may  be  entitled  to  our  regard ; because  the 
time  will  come,  and  the  wisest  knows  not  how 
soon,  when  all  distinctions  but  that  of  virtue 
shall  cease ; and  Death,  the  great  leveler  of  hu- 
man greatness,  shall  reduce  us  to  the  same 
state. 

Your  regular  attendance  at  our  stated  meet- 
ings is  essentially  necessary.  In  the  absence 
of  the  Master,  you  are  to  govern  this  Lodge; 
in  his  presence,  you  are  to  strengthen  and  sup- 
port him.  I firmly  rely  in  your  knowledge  of 
Masonry  and  your  attachment  to  the  Lodge 
for  the  faithful  discharge  of  the  duties  of  this 
important  trust.  Look  well  to  the  West. 

Here  may  be  sung  a selection  of  music. 

The  Junior  Warden. 

Brother , having  been  duly  elected 

Junior  Warden  of  this  Lodge,  you  are  now  in- 
vested with  the  jewel  of  your  office,  which  is 
the  Plumb. 

The  Plumb  admonishes  us  to  walk  upright- 
ly in  our  several  stations ; to  hold  the  scales  of 
justice  in  equal  poise;  to  observe  the  just 
medium  between  intemperance  and  pleasure, 
and  to  make  our  passions  and  prejudices  coin- 
cide with  the  line  of  our  duty.  To  you  is  com- 
mitted the  superintendence  of  the  craft  during 
the  hours  of  refreshment.  It  is,  therefore,  in- 
dispensably necessary  that  you  should  not  only 
be  temperate  and  discreet  in  the  indulgence  of 
your  own  inclinations,  but  carefully  observe 
that  none  of  the  craft  be  suffered  to  convert 


50 


the  purposes  of  refreshment  into  intemperance 
and  excess.  Your  regular  and  punctual  at- 
tendance is  particularly  requested,  and  I have 
no  doubt  that  you  will  well  and  faithfully  per- 
form the  duties  of  your  office.  Look  well  to 
the  South. 

Here  may  be  sung  a selection  of  music. 

The  Treasurer. 

Brother , as  you  have  been  duly 

elected  Treasurer  of  this  Lodge,  you  are  now 
invested  with  the  jewel  of  your  office,  which  is 
the  Crossed  Keys,  an  emblem  of  security.  It 
is  your  duty  to  receive  all  moneys  from  the 
hands  of  the  Secretary,  keep  a correct  account 
of  the  same,  and  pay  them  out  by  order  of  the 
Worshipful  Master,  and  the  consent  of  the 
Lodge.  I trust  your  regard  for  the  fraternity 
will  prompt  you  to  the  faithful  discharge  of 
the  duties  of  your  office. 

The  Secretary. 

Brother , having  been  duly  elected 

Secretary  of  this  Lodge  you  are  now  invested 
with  the  jewel  of  your  office,  which  is  the 
Crossed  Pens,  a most  appropriate  emblem  of 
your  duties.  It  is  your  duty  to  observe  all  pro- 
ceedings of  the  Lodge,  make  a fair  record  of 
all  things  proper  to  be  written ; receive  all 
moneys  due  the  Lodge  and  pay  them  over  to 
the  Treasurer.  Your  good  inclination  to  Ma- 
sonry, and  to  this  Lodge,  I hope  will  induce 
you  to  discharge  the  duties  of  your  office  with 
fidelity,  and  by  doing  so  you  will  merit  the 
esteem  and  applause  of  your  brethren. 

The  Chaplain. 

(Rev.)  Brother , having  been  ap- 

pointed Chaplain  of  this  Lodge,  you  are  now 


51 


invested  with  the  jewel  of  your  office,  which 
is  appropriately  an  open  Bible.  It  is  your  duty 
to  perform  those  solemn  services  which  we 
should  constantly  render  to  our  Infinite  Cre- 
ator, and  which,  when  offered  by  one  whose 
holy  profession  is  to  point  to  heaven  and  lead 
the  way,  may,  by  refining  our  souls,  strength- 
ening our  virtues  and  purifying  our  minds,  pre- 
pare us  for  admission  into  the  society  of  those 
above  whose  happiness  will  be  as  endless  as  it 
is  perfect. 

The  Senior  Deacon. 

Brother , as  you  have  been  elected 

Senior  Deacon  of  this  Lodge,  you  are  now  in- 
vested with  the  jewel  of  your  office,  which  is 
the  Square  and  Compasses,  inclosing  a blazing 
sun.  It  is  your  duty  to  attend  on  the  Worship- 
ful Master  and  to  act  as  his  proxy  in  the  active 
duties  of  the  Lodge,  such  as  the  reception  of 
candidates  into  the  different  degrees  of  Ma- 
sonry, the  introduction  and  accommodation  of 
visiting  brethren,  and  other  duties.  The  im- 
pressiveness of  all  the  ceremonies  of  the  Lodge 
will  depend  largely  upon  the  dignity  and  ef- 
ficiency with  which  you  perform  your  duties^ 
and  I doubt  not  that  the.  duties  of  this  office,  in 
your  hands,  will  receive  due  care  and  attention. 

The  Junior  Deacon. 

Brother , having  been  duly  elected 

Junior  Deacon  of  this  Lodge,  you  are  now  in- 
vested with  the  appropriate  jewel  of  your  of- 
fice, which  is  the  Square  and  Compasses  inclos- 
ing a half  moon.  The  similarity  of  your  jewel 
to  that  of  the  Senior  Deacon  indicates,  in  a 
measure,  the  similarity  of  your  duties  to  his ; 
you  are  the  active  proxy  of  the  Wardens,  and 


52 


it  is  also  your  duty  to  see  that  the  Lodge  is 
duly  tiled.  I doubt  not  that  you  will  be  dili- 
gent and  faithful  in  the  discharge  of  your 
duties. 

The  Stewards. 

Brothers and , you 

have  been  appointed  the  Stewards  of  this 
Lodge,  and  are  now  each  invested  with  the 
jewel  of  your  office,  which  is  the  cornucopia; 
signifying  plenty,  and  symbolic  of  your  duties 
when  the  brethren  are  at  refreshment.  It  is 
your  duty  to  see  that  the  tables  are  properly 
furnished  at  refreshment  and  that  every 
brother  is  properly  provided  for.  When  the 
Lodge  is  at  work  you  have  also  a very  import- 
ant part  as  assistants  of  the  Deacons,  and  other 
officers  in  performing  their  respective  duties. 
Your  regular  and  prompt  attendance  will  af- 
ford the  best  proof  of  your  zeal  and  attachment 
to  the  Lodge. 

The  Marshal. 

Brother , as  you  have  been  ap- 

pointed Marshal  of  this  Lodge,  you  will  now 
be  invested  with  the  proper  jewel  of  your  of- 
fice, which  is  the  crossed  batons,  an  emblem  of 
your  authoritative  directing  power.  It  is  your 
province  to  have  charge  of  the  Lodge  on  all 
public  occasions  when  it  is  in  line  of  march, 
and  you  will  therefore  be  responsible  for  the 
proper  appearance  of  the  brethren  on  those 
public  occasions,  both  as  to  the  manner  and 
character  of  their  dress,  the  dignity  of  their  ap- 
pearance and  the  skill  with  which  they  perform 
the  various  evolutions  prescribed  by  our  Ma- 
sonic ceremonies. 


53 


In  order  to  perform  these  duties  properly, 
it  will  be  necessary  for  you  to  be  thoroughly 
familiar  with  all  these  ceremonies  and  to  de- 
port yourself  with  the  dignity  and  skill  which 
you  should  require  from  your  brethren.  When 
in  the  Lodge,  your  station  will  be  near  the 
Master  in  order  that  you  may  assist  him  by 
every  means  in  your  power,  in  the  quiet,  order- 
ly disposition  of  the  business  of  the  Lodge, 
and  the  conduct  of  its  work. 

I doubt  riot  that  your  interest  in  the  welfare 
of  the  Lodge  will  prompt  you  to  exercise  your 
best  endeavors  to  discharge  properly  the  duties 
of  your  office. 

The  Tiler. 

Brother , you  are  appointed  Tiler 

of  this  Lodge,  and  I invest  you  with  implement 
of  your  office.  As  the  sword  is  placed  in  the 
hands  of  the  Tiler  to  enable  him  effectually 
to  guard  against  the  approach  of  cowans  and 
eavesdroppers,  and  suffer  none  to  pass  or  re- 
pass without  permission,  so  it  should  admonish 
us  to  set  a guard  over  our  thoughts,  a watch  at 
our  lips,  and  post  a sentinel  over  our  actions, 
thereby  preventing  the  approach  of  every  un- 
worthy thought  or  deed  to  our  hearts  and  pre- 
serving our  consciences  void  of  offense  to- 
wards God  and  man. 

Charge  to  the  Worshipful  Master. 

Worshipful  Master,  the  Grand  Lodge  hav- 
ing committed  to  your  care  the  superintend- 
ence and  government  of  the  brethren  who  com- 
pose this  (new)  Lodge,  I place  in  your  hand 
the  gavel,  the  emblem  of  your  authority  as  a 
ruler  of  the  craft.  You  cannot  be  insensible  of 


54 


the  obligations  which  devolve  on  you,  as  their 
head,  nor  of  your  responsibility  for  the  faithful 
discharge  of  the  important  duties  attached  to 
your  office. 

The  honor,  reputation,  and  usefulness  of 
your  Lodge  will  materially  depend  on  the  skill 
and  assiduity  with  which  you  manage  its  con- 
cerns; while  the  happiness  of  its  members  will 
be  generally  promoted  in  proportion  to  the  zeal 
and  ability  with  which  you  propagate  the 
genuine  principles  of  our  institution. 

As  a pattern  for  imitation,  consider  the  sun, 
which,  rising  in  the  east,  regularly  diffuses  light 
and  lustre  to  all  within  its  circle.  In  like  man- 
ner, it  is  in  your  province  to  spread  and  com- 
municate light  and  instruction  to  the  brethren 
of  your  Lodge.  Forcibly  impress  upon  them 
the  dignity  and  high  importance  of  Masonry; 
and  seriousl}^  admonish  them  never  to  disgrace 
it.  Charge  them  to  practice  out  of  the  Lodge, 
those  duties  which  they  have  been  taught  in 
it ; and  by  amiable,  discreet,  and  virtuous  con- 
duct, to  convince  mankind  of  the  goodness  of 
the  institution ; so  that,  when  any  one  is  said 
to  be  a member  of  it,  the  world  may  know  that 
he  is  one  to  whom  the  burdened  heart  may 
pour  out  its  sorrows,  to  whom  distress  may 
prefer  its  suit,  whose  hand  is  guided  by  justice, 
and  whose  heart  is  expanded  by  benevolence. 
In  short,  by  a diligent  observance  of  the  by- 
laws of  your  Lodge,  the  Constitution  of  Ma- 
sonry, and  above  all,  the  Holy  Scriptures, 
which  are  given  as  a rule  and  guide  to  your 
faith,  you  will  be  enabled  to  acquit  yourself 
with  honor  and  reputation,  and  lay  up  a crown 
of  rejoicing,  which  shall  continue  when  time 
shall  be  no  more. 


55 


Charge  to  the  Wardens. 

Brothers  Senior  and  Junior  Wardens,  you 
are  too  well  acquainted  with  the  principles  of 
Masonry  to  warrant  any  distrust  that  you  will 
be  found  wanting  in  the  discharge  of  your  re- 
spective duties.  Suffice  it  to  mention,  that  what 
you  have  seen  praiseworthy  in  others,  you 
should  certainly  imitate ; and  what  in  them 
may  have  appeared  defective,  you  should  in 
yourselves  amend.  You  should  be  examples  of 
good  order  and  regularity;  for  it  is  only  by  a 
due  regard  to  the  laws  in  your  own  conduct 
that  you  can  expect  obedience  to  them  from 
others.  You  are  assiduously  to  assist  the  Mas- 
ter in  the  discharge  of  his  trust,  diffusing  light 
and  imparting  knowledge  to  all  whom  he  shall 
place  under  your  care.  In  the  absence  of  the 
Master  you  will  succeed  to  higher  duties;  your 
acquirements  must  therefore,  be  such  that  the 
craft  may  never  suffer  for  want  of  proper  in- 
struction. From  the  spirit  which  you  have 
hitherto  evinced,  I entertain  no  doubt  that  your 
future  conduct  will  be  such  as  to  merit  the 
applause  of  your  brethren,  and  the  testimony 
of  a good  conscience. 

Charge  to  the  Brethren  of  the  Lodge. 

Brethren  of Lodge,  such  is  the 

nature  of  our  Constitution,  that  as  some  must 
of  necessity  rule  and  teach,  so  others  must,  of 
course,  learn  to  submit  and  obey.  Humility  in 
both  is  an  essential  duty.  The  officers  who  are 
appointed  to  govern  the  Lodge  are  sufficiently 
conversant  with  the  rules  of  propriety  and  the 
laws  of  the  institution  to  avoid  exceeding  the 
powers  with  which  they  are  entrusted,  and 


56 


you  are  of  too  generous  dispositions  to  envy 
their  preferment.  I,  therefore,  trust  that  you 
will  have  but  one  aim,  to  please  each  other  and 
to  unite  in  the  grand  design  of  being  happy  and 
communicating  happiness. 

Finally,  my  brethren,  as  this  association  has 
been  formed  and  perfected  in  so  much  unity 
and  concord,  in  which  we  greatly  rejoice,  so 
may  it  long  continue.  May  you  enjoy  every 
satisfaction  and  delight  which  disinterested 
friendship  can  afford.  May  kindness  and  broth- 
erly affection  distinguish  your  conduct  as  men 
and  Masons.  Within  your  peaceful  walls  may 
your  children  and  your  children’s  children  cele- 
brate with  joy  and  gratitude  the  annual  recur- 
rence of  this  auspicious  solemnity.  And  may 
the  tenets  of  our  profession  be  transmitted 
through  your  Lodge,  pure  and  unimpaired, 
from  generation  to  generation. 

The  installing  officer  then  says — Worship- 
ful Grand  Marshak  make  the  proclamation : 

The  Grand  Marshal  then  steps  to  the  South  and 
makes  the  following  proclamation : 

In  the  name  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand 
Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the 
State  of  Michigan,  I proclaim  that  this  new 

Lodge,  by  the  name  of Lodge,  No. 

, has  been  duly  and  legally  constituted, 

and  that  the  officers  thereof  have  been  duly  in- 
stalled. This  I proclaim  from  the  South.  The 
craft  will  take  due  notice  thereof  and  govern 
themselves  accordingly.  Brethren,  together 
attend  the  Grand  Honors. 

The  same  proclamation  is  given  at  the  West  and 
East.  After  the  proclamation  at  the  South,  the  Grand 
Honors  are  given  once,  in  the  West  twice,  in  the  East 
three  times. 


57 


An  appropriate  selection  of  music  may  then  be 
given. 

The  new  Master  may  return  thanks,  and  other 
exercises  may  then  follow. 


RECEPTION  OF  VISITORS. 

The  reception  of  visitors  with  the  honor  due  to 
their  ranks  is  an  ancient  custom  of  the  fraternity  which 
should  never  be  omitted.  It  is  an  act  of  great  dis- 
courtesy to  a visiting  officer  to  omit  his  formal  reception 
by  the  Lodge,  and  in  an  official  visitation  the  visiting 
officer  should  ordinarily  require  it.  On  the  occasion  of 
visits  not  official  it  will  be  found  to  greatly  increase  a 
true  fraternal  feeling  when  this  courtesy  is  properly 
shown. 

I. — GRAND  LODGE. 

When  a visit  from  the  Grand  Lodge  is  expected, 
the  Master  will  see  that  a convenient  apartment  is  pro- 
vided for  the  use  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  where  the  same 
can  be  opened  in  the  proper  form.  On  being  notified 
that  the  Grand  Lodge  is  opened  and  prepared  for  the 
visitation,  the  Master,  the  Lodge  being  opened  on  the 
third  degree,  will  send  a committee,  headed,  if  possible, 
by  a Past  Master,  with  the  Stewards  with  their  rods, 
the  Deacons  with  their  rods,  and  the  Marshal,  to  escort 
the  Grand  Lodge.  A procession  is  formed  in  the  fol- 
lowing order : 

Marshal. 

Stewards.  * 

Committee. 

• Deacons. 

The  Grand  Lodge. 

On  arriving  at  the  door,  the  Grand  Marshal  will 
announce ; 

The  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  F.  & 
A.  M.,  of  the  State  of  Michigan. 

The  procession  enters,  the  Stewards  and  Deacons 
halt  inside  the  door  and  cross  their  rods,  the  committee 
proceed,  followed  by  the  Grand  Lodge  in  the  inverse 
order  of  their  rank.  When  the  Grand  Master  arrives  in 
front  of  the  altar,  he  halts,  and  the  Grand  Lodge  filing 
to  the  right  and  left,  form  a line  across  the  hall,  the 
committee  then  introduce  The  Most  Worshipful  Grand 


58 


Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons.  The  Grand  Mas- 
ter then  advances  to  the  East,  and  the  Master  receives 
him  according  to  ancient  usages,  with  the  private  Grand 
Honors  of  Masonry,  and  resigns  to  him  the  chair  and 
the  gavel,  each  other  Grand  Officer  taking  his  station 
in  place  of  the  corresponding  officer  of  the  Lodge  and 
the  brethren  are  seated. 

The  Grand  Master,  at  his  pleasure,  resigns  the  chair 
to  the  Master,  whereupon  the  other  Grand  Officers  re- 
sign their  respective  stations  to  the  proper  officers  of  the 
iLodge  and  repair  to  the  East,  and  take  seats  on  the  right 
of  the  Grand  Master. 

The  Grand  Lodge  should  retire  before  the  Lodge  is 
closed.  When  the  Grand  Master  announces  his  inten- 
tion to  retire,  the  Lodge  is  called  up,  the  Grand  Honors 
are  given  and  the  Stewards  and  Deacons  repair  to  the 
door  and  cross  their  rods,  the  Marshal  conducts  the 
procession  of  the  Grand  Lodge  to  the  door  and  salutes 
as  the  procession  passes  him. 

II. — THE  GRAND  MASTER. 

When  a visit  from  the  Grand  Master  is  expected, 
the  Master  will  see  that  a convenient  apartment  is  pro- 
vided for  his  use  and  that  of  his  suite.  When  the 
Grand  Master’s  visit  is  announced,  the  Master  sends  the 
Marshal,  Deacons,  Stewards,  and  one  of  the  oldest 
members  (a  Past  Master,  if  practicable),  bearing  the 
Book  of  Constitutions,  to  escort  him  to  the  Lodge  room. 
A procession  is  formed  in  the  following  order: 

Marshal. 

Stewards. 

Suite. 

Brother  with  Book  of  Constitutions. 

Grand  Master. 

Deacons. 

The  Marshal  makes  a demand,  and  on  entering  an- 
nounces : 

The  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of 
the  State  of  Michigan. 

When  the  Master  calls  up  the  Lodge,  the  Stewards 
step  inside  and  cross  their  rods,  while  the  others  pro- 


59 


ceed  toward  the  East.  On  arriving  at  the  altar,  the  suite 
open  inwards,  the  Grand  Master  passes  through,  and 
the  others,  filing  to  the  right  and  left,  form  a line  across 
the  hall.  The  private  Grand  Honors  are  then  given. 
The  Grand  Master  advances  to  the  East  and  the  Master 
receives  him,  and  resigns  to  him  the  chair  and  gavel. 
The  suite  take  place  on  the  right  of  the  Master,  and 
the  Lodge  is  seated. 

The  Grand  Master  may  decline  to  receive  the  chair 
and  gavel,  or  at  his  pleasure  may  resign  the  same. 

When  the  Grand  Master  announces  his  intention  to 
retire,  having  previously  resigned  the  chair  and  gavel  to 
the  Master,  the  Lodge  is  called  up,  the  private  Grand 
Honors  are  given  and  the  Master  directs  the  proper 
officers  to  attend  for  the  escort  of  the  Grand  Master. 
The  Stewards  halt  at  the  door,  cross  their  rods,  and  the 
other  officers  escort  the  Grand  Master  to  his  apartment. 

III. — THE  DEPUTY  GRAND  MASTER,  GRAND  WARDENS,  OR 
PROXY  OF  GRAND  MASTER. 

The  form  will  be  the  same  as  for  the  Grand 
Master,  except  that  the  Book  of  Constitutions  will  not 
be  borne  before  them. 

IV. — OTHER  BRETHREN. 

When  a brother  visits  a Lodge  and  has  been  ex- 
amined or  vouched  for,  the  Master  will  send  the  Senior 
Deacon  to  introduce  him.  That  officer  conducts  him  to 
the  West  of  the  Altar  and  says : 

Worshipful  Master,  I have  the  pleasure  of 

introducing  to  you  brother , of 

Lodge  

The  Master  calls  up  the  Lodge  and  says : 

Brother , it  gives  me  pleasure  to 

introduce  to  you  the  members  of 

Lodge  and  to  vyelcome  you  to  a seat  among  us. 

We  meet  on , and  shall  be  very  glad 

to  Avelcome  you  to  any  of  these  meetings. 

The  Senior  Deacon  conducts  the  visitor  to  a seat 
and  the  Lodge  is  seated. 


GO 


No  brother  should  be  allowed  to  visit  a Lodge  for 
the  first  time  without  an  introduction.  If  the  visitor  is 
a Past  Master,  he  should  be  invited  to  a seat  in  the 
East,  and  if  he  is  an  officer  of  any  Grand  Lodge  or  a 
permanent  member  of  our  own  Grand  Lodge,  he  should 
be  received  with  the  Grand  Honors  at  the  time  of  his 
introduction. 

The  Master  should  take  great  care  to  extend  the 
proper  courtesies  to  visiting  brothers  and  to  make  them 
feel  that  they  are  welcome. 


INSTALLATION 

CEREMONIES. 


02 


INSTALLATION  OF  OFFICERS  OF 
GRAND  LODGE. 


^ The  Grand  Master-elect  is  usually  installed  by  the 
retiring  Grand  Master.  The  other  officers  may  then  be 
installed  by  the  newly  installed  Grand  Master  or  by  the 
retiring  Grand  Master;  or  all  of  the  Grand  Officers- 
elect  may  be  installed  by  some  Past  Grand  Master  se- 
lected for  that  purpose. 

The  retiring  Grand  Master  says : 

Brethren  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  we  are  about 
to  install  the  officers-elect  of  the  Grand  Lodge 
of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the  State  of 
Michigan.  Brother  Grand  Secretary,  read  the 
names  of  the  ofificers-elect. 

The  Grand  Secretary  then  reads  the  list  of  officers, 
and  the  retiring  Grand  Master  says : 

Worshipful  Grand  Marshal. 

G.  Mar. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master. 

G.  M. — Direct  the  retiring  Grand  Officers 
to  deliver  up  their  insignia  of  office. 

G.  Mar. — The  retiring  officers  of  this  Grand 
Lodge  will  deliver  up  their  aprons  and  jewels 
in  the  East. 

The  retiring  Grand  Officers  then  arise,  the  Grand 
Marshal  proceeds  around  the  room  collecting  the  several 
retiring  officers  in  the  usual  order  of  Grand  Lodge 
processions,  who,  with  their  jewels  and  aprons,  pro- 
ceed around  the  Lodge  room  to  the  East,  where  their 
jewels  and  aprons  are  deposited  on  the  platform  in 
order.  Under  the  direction  of  the  Grand  Marshal,  the 
officers-elect  then  proceed  once  more  around  the  Lodge 
room  to  the  South,  where  they  turn  to  the  North  and 
form  a line  in  front  of  the  altar,  and  six  or  eight  feet 
away  from  it.  During  this  time,  the  installing  officer, 
if  a different  person  from  the  retiring  Grand  Master, 
assumes  the  East. 


G3 


G.  Mar. — Most  Worshipful  Sir,  I present  to 
be  installed  as  officers  of  the  Grand  Lodge  of 
Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the  State  of 
Michigan  for  the  ensuing  year,  the  following 
brethren,  who  have  all  been  duly  elected  to  the 


respective  offices : Brother to  be 

Grand  Master;  Brother to  be  Deputy 


Grand  Master;  (and  so  forth  through  the  list.) 

The  installing  officer  then  says : 

Brethren  of  the  Grand  Lodge,  you  here  be- 
hold these  brothers,  each  of  whom  having  been 
duly  elected,  now  declares  himself  ready  for  in- 
stallation. If  any  of  you  know  of  any  reason 
why  he  should  not  be  installed,  state  your  ob- 
jection now,  or  else  for  ever  after  hold  your 
peace.  (Pause.)  There  being  no  objection,  I 
shall  now  proceed  to  the  installation. 

Brethren,  the  first  lesson  that  we  are  taught 
in  Masonry  is  that  no  man  should  ever  pre- 
sume to  enter  upon  any  great  and  important 
undertaking  without  first  invoking  the  blessing 
of  Deity.  Let  us,  therefore,  before  proceeding 
further  with  this  important  ceremony,  first 
invoke  the  blessing  of  the  Supreme  Architect 
of  the  Universe. 

The  installing  officer  then  calls  up  Grand  Lodge  and 
the  Grand  Chaplain  delivers  the  following  or  some 
other  appropriate  prayer : 

Grand  Chaplain — O,  Thou,  the  Great  Arch- 
itect of  the  Universe,  Eternal  Light  and  Life, 
who  art  omniscient,  omnipotent  and  omnipres- 
ent, pour  down  on  this  Thy  servant,  who  is 
about  to  assume  the  highest  office  in  the  craft 
of  his  brethren,  the  continual  dew  of  Thy  bless- 
ing. Give  him  health,  strength  and  wisdom  so 
that  every  act  of  his  administration  may  re- 


64 


dound  to  Thy  glory,  the  good  of  this  fraternity 
and  the  welfare  of  mankind.  Amen. 

Response — So  mote  it  be. 

The  Installing  Officer,  addressing  the  Grand  Mas- 
ter-elect, then  says : 

My  brother,  advance  to  the  altar,  kneel  up- 
on both  knees  and  repeat  after  me  this  obliga- 
tion. I,  , in  the  presence  of  Al- 

mighty God  and  these  witnesses,  do  hereby 
and  hereon  solemnly  promise  that  I will  accept 
the  office  of  Grand  Master  of  Masons  of  this 
jurisdiction  and  administer  the  duties  of  that 
high  office  faithfully,  zealously  and  impartially, 
to  the  best  of  my  ability  for  the  ensuing  twelve 
months,  and  until  a successor  shall  have  been  - 
duly  elected  and  installed  in  my  stead.  I fur-  , 
ther  promise  that  I will  support  and  maintain  [ 
the  constitution,  laws,  edicts,  ritual  and  cere-  ; 
monies  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  and  that  I will  in  ,1 
all  things  conscientiously  discharge  my  duties  )\ 
as  a ruler  of  the  craft  during  the  term  for  ^ 
which  I have  been  chosen.  So  help  me  God,  ^ 
and  keep  me  steadfast  in  this,  my  solemn  obli-  \ 
gation.  ^ 

The  Grand  Master-elect  then  rises,  and  the  install-  { 
ing  officer  addressing  him,  says  : j 

My  brother,  having  solemnly  pledged  i 
yourself  to  the  faithful  discharge  of  your  duties  t 
as  the  ruler  of  the  craft  during  the  ensuing 
twelve  months,  you  will  now  be  invested  with  ■ 
the  insignia  of  your  office. 

The  Grand  Master-elect  is  then  invested  with  the 
insignia  of  his  office  by  the  Grand  Marshal,  who  then 
conducts  him  to  the  East,  where  the  installing  officer 
says : 

Let  me  congratulate  you.  Most  Worshipful 
Sir,  on  the  honor  of  being  raised  from  the  level 


65 


of  equality  to  the  high  station  of  presiding  over 
all  the  Lodges  of  this  Grand  Jurisdiction.  We 
look  up  with  confidence  to  a brother  whose  per- 
son is  endeared  to  us  by  that  love  of  the  fra- 
ternity which  is  sanctioned  by  the  experience 
of  many  revolving  years.  May  the  Father  of 
Light,  of  Life  and  of  Love  give  you  wisdom  to 
perform  acceptably  the  important  duties  which 
you  are  this  day  called  upon  to  discharge.  May 
His  protecting  care  keep  you  from  falling,  and 
when  you  come  to  lay  aside  the  emblem  of 
your  authority,  may  it  be  with  the  conscious- 
ness of  having  faithfully  discharged  your  duty 
to  Masonry,  to  the  Lodges  under  your  care  and 
to  your  brethren ; and  late,  very  late,  in  life, 
may  you  be  transferred  from  the  fading  honors 
of  an  earthly  Lodge  to  the  mansions  prepared 
for  the  faithful  in  another  and  better  world. 

The  Installing  Officer  then  causes  the  Grand  Master- 
elect  to  face  about,  and,  addressing  the  brethren,  says  : 

Brethren,  behold  your  Grand  Master. 
Grand  Master,  behold  your  brethren. 

A procession  of  the  craft  is  then  made  three  times 
around  the  Lodge,  and  the  installation  ode  is  sung. 

INSTALLATION  ODE. 

Hail,  Masonry  divine. 

Glory  of  ages  shine. 

Long  may’st  thou  reign. 

Where’er  thy  Lodges  stand. 

May  they  have  great  command 
Thou  art  divine. 

Great  fabrics  still  arise. 

And  grace  the  azure  skies — 

Great  are  thy  plans. 

Thy  noble  orders  are 
Matchless  beyond  compare ; 

No  art  with  thee  can  share — 

Thou  art  divine. 


66 


Hiram,  the  architect, 

Did  all  the  craft  direct 

How  they  should  build; 

Solomon,  great  Israel’s  king. 

Did  mighty  blessings  bring. 

Which  still  eternal  spring. 

Hail,  Royal  Art!* 

*The  procession  and  ode  may,  at  the  discretion  of 
the  installing  officer,  be  omitted. 

At  the  conclusion  of  the  procession  and  ode,  the 
Grand  Marshal  makes  the  following  proclamation : 

In  the  name  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand 
Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the 
State  of  Michigan,  I proclaim  that  Most  Wor- 
shipful Brother has  been  installed 

Grand  Master  of  Masons,  with  the  Grand  Hon- 
ors of  Masonry  by  three  times  three. 

Brethren,  attend  the  Grand  Honors. 

The  Grand  Honors  are  then  given  by  all  the 
brethren. 

The  Grand  Marshal  then  introduces  the  Deputy 
Grand  Master  and  the  other  officers  in  turn  with  the 
following  or  some  similar  formula : 

Most  Worshipful  Sir,  I have  the  pleasure  of 

presenting  Brother , who,  having 

been  duly  elected  to  serve  the  craft  as  their 
Deputy  Grand  Master  (naming  in  each  case 
the  appropriate  office),  now  declares  himself 
ready  for  installation. 

Deputy  Grand  Master. 

Installing  Officer : 

Right  Worshipful  Brother,  the  station  to 
which  you  have  been  called  by  the  suffrages 
of  your  brethren  is  one  of  great  dignity  and 
much  importance.  In  the  absence  of  the  Grand 
Master,  you  are  to  exercise  his  prerogatives  in 
presiding  over  the  craft;  in  his  presence,  you 
are  to  assist  him  with  your  counsel  and  co- 


67 


operation.  But,  while  your  powers  and  priv- 
ileges are  thus  extensive,  remember  that  they 
carry  with  them  a heavy  share  of  responsibil- 
ity. The  honor  that  has  been  conferred  upon 
you  demands  a corresponding  fidelity  and  at- 
tachment to  the  interest  of  those  to  whose 
kindness  and  confidence  you  are  indebted  for 
your  official  elevation. 

Let  the  Book  of  Constitutions  be  your  con- 
stant study,  that  you  may  be  better  enabled  to 
preserve  inviolate  the  laws  and  ancient  land- 
marks of  our  fraternity,  and  that  you  may  be 
ever  ready  to  exercise  the  functions  of  that 
more  exalted  office  to  which  you  are  liable  to 
be  called.  Receive  the  jewel  of  your  office,  and 
sit  beside  the  Grand  Master  to  aid  him  with 
your  counsel. 

Senior  Grand  Warden. 

Right  Worshipful  Brother,  by  the  suffrages 
of  your  brethren,  you  have  been  elected  their 
Senior  Grand  Warden,  and  we  now  invest  you 
with  the  jewel  of  your  office. 

Your  regular  attendance  at  the  communica- 
tions of  the  Grand  Lodge  is  essentially  neces- 
sary. In  the  absence  of  the  Grand  Master  and 
his  Deputy,  you  are  to  govern  the  craft;  in 
their  presence,  you  are  to  strengthen  and  sup- 
port their  authority.  We  firmly  rely  on  your 
knowledge  of  Masonry  and  your  attachment  to 
our  institution  for  the  faithful  discharge  of  the 
duties  of  this  important  trust.  Look  well  t. 
the  West. 

Junior  Grand  Warden. 

Right  Worshipful  Brother,  by  the  suffrages 
of  your  brethren,  you  have  been  elected  their 


68 


Junior  Grand  Warden,  and  we  now  invest  you 
with  the  jewel  of  your  office. 

Your  ' regular  and  punctual  attendance  at 
the  communications  of  the  Grand  Lodge  is 
earnestly  requested.  In  the  absence  of  your 
superior  officers,  you  are  to  govern  the  craft; 
in  their  presence,  you  will  aid  them  in  their 
arduous  labors.  We  have  no  doubt  that  you 
will  perform  the  duties  of  your  office  faithfulh 
and  well.  Look  well  to  the  South. 

Grand  Treasurer. 

Right  Worshipful  Brother : As  you  have 

been  elected  to  the  responsible  office  of  Grand 
Treasurer,  we  now  invest  you  with  the  jewel 
of  your  office. 

It  is  your  duty  to  receive  all  moneys  from 
the  Grand  Secretary,  to  keep  a correct  account 
of  the  same,  and  pay  them  out  by  the  order  of 
the  Grand  Master,  and  the  consent  of  the 
Grand  Lodge.  The  office  to  which  you  have 
been  elected  is  an  important  trust,  and  the 
choice  of  your  brethren  is  an  evidence  of  the 
high  opinion  they  entertain  of  your  fidelity  and 
discretion.  We‘do  not  doubt  that  your  regard 
for  the  fraternity  will  prompt  you  to  the  faith- 
ful discharge  of  your  duties. 

Grand  Secretary. 

Right  Worshipful  Brother:  As  you  have 

been  elected  to  the  important  office  of  Grand 
Secretary,  we  now  invest  you  with  the  jewel  of 
your  office. 

It  is  your  duty  to  observe  the  proceedings 
of  the  Grand  Lodge,  and  to  make  a fair  record 
of  all  things  proper  to  be  written.  You  are  to 
receive  all  moneys  due  the  Grand  Lodge,  and 


69 


pay  them  over  to  the  Grand  Treasurer.  You 
are  also  the  official  correspondent  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  and  have  in  your  charge  its 
records  and  archives.  In  the  discharge  of  these 
important  duties,  let  your  carriage  and  behav- 
ior be  marked  by  that  promptitude  and  discre- 
tion which  will  at  once  reflect  credit  on  your- 
self and  honor  on  the  body  you  represent. 

Grand  Lecturer. 

Right  Worshipful  Brother:  As  you  have 

been  elected  Grand  Lecturer  of  this  jurisdic- 
tion, we  now  invest  you  with  the  jewel  of  your 
office. 

It  is  your  duty  to  instruct  the  craft  in  the 
proper  practice  of  our  rites;  to  communicate 
light  and  information  to  the  uninformed;  to 
preserve  our  ritual  and  our  traditions  in  the 
memory  of  the  fraternity;  to  see  that  the 
ancient  landmarks  of  the  fraternity  are  not  in- 
fringed by  unskilled  hands;  and  by  your  in- 
structions to  the  constituent  Lodges,  to  illus- 
trate the  genius  and  vindicate  the  principles  of 
our  institution.  It  is  to  be  presumed  that  one 
whom  his  brethren  have  thought  capable  of 
discharging  so  important  and  difficult  a trust, 
will  require  no  admonitions  to  the  proper  per- 
formance of  his  duty.  Let  it  be  your  object, 
while  enjoining  upon  the  members  of  this  time- 
honored  fraternity  a faithful  regard  for  its  obli- 
gations, to  impress  the  world  at  large  with  a 
favorable  opinion  of  its  good  efifects. 

Grand  Chaplain. 

Worshipful  and  Reverend  Brother:  As  you 
have  been  elected  Grand  Chaplain  of  this  juris- 


70 

diction,  we  now  invest  you  with  the  jewel  of 
your  office. 

In  the  discharge  of  your  duties,  you  will 
lead  our  devotional  exercises,  and  perform  the 
sacred  functions  of  your  holy  calling  at  our 
public  ceremonies.  We  are  sure  that  while 
ministering  at  the  Masonic  altar,  the  services 
you  perform  will  lose  nothing  of  their  vital  in- 
fluence, because  they  are  practiced  in  that  spirit 
of  universal  tolerance  which  distinguishes 
our  institution.  The  doctrines  of  morality  and 
virtue  which  you  are  accustomed  to  impart  to 
the  world,  will  form  the  appropriate  lessons 
which  you  are  expected  to  communicate  to 
your  brethren  in  the  Lodge.  The  profession 
which  you  have  chosen  for  your  lot  in  life  is 
the  best  guarantee  that  the  duties  of  your  of- 
fice Avill  be  performed  with  fervency  and  zeal. 

Grand  Deacons. 

Worshipful  Brethren:  As  you  have  been 
elected  Grand  Deacons  of  this  Grand  Lodge, 
we  now  invest  you  with  the  jewels  of  your 
office,  and  these  rods  are  ensigns  of  your  au- 
thority. 

It  is  your  province  to  attend  upon  the 
Grand  Master  and  Grand  Wardens,  and  to  act 
as  their  proxies  in  the  active  duties  of  the 
Grand  Lodge.  Let  vigilance  and  attention 
characterize  you  in  the  discharge  of  your 
duties. 

Grand  Marshal. 

Worshipful  Brother:  As  you  have  been 

elected  Grand  Marshal,  we  now  invest  you 
with  the  jewel  of  your  office,  and  present  you 
with  this  baton  as  the  ensign  of  your  authority. 


71 


It  is  your  duty  to  make  official  proclama- 
tions, to  arrange  all  processions  of  the  Grand 
I.odge,  and  to  preserve  order  according  to  the 
forms  prescribed.  Skill  and  precision  are  es- 
sentially necessary  to  the  faithful  discharge  of 
these  duties. 

Grand  Tiler. 

Worshipful  Brother:  As  you  have  been 

elected  Tiler  of  this  Grand  Lodge,  we  now  in- 
vest you  with  the  jewel  of  your  office,  and 
place  this  sword  in  your  hands  the  more  effect- 
ually to  enable  you  to  guard  against  the  ap- 
proach of  cowans  and  eavesdroppers,  and  to 
suffer  none  to  pass  or  repass  but  such  as  are 
duly  qualified  and  have  permission. 

It  is  your  duty  to  guard  the  door  of  the 
Grand  Lodge  on  the  outside,  to  summon  the 
members  of  the  Grand  Lodge  under  the  direc- 
tion of  the  Grand  Secretary,  and  to  attend  to 
such  other  duties  as  may  be  required  of  you  by 
the  Grand  Lodge.  Your  punctual  attendance 
is  necessary  at  every  communication. 

The  installing  officer  says: 

Worshipful  Grand  Marshal,  make  the  proc- 
lamation. 

The  Grand  Marshal  then  proceeds  to  the  South  and 
proclaims : 

In  the  name  of  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand 
Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the 
State  of  Michigan,  I proclaim  that  its  officers- 
elect  for  the  ensuing  year  have  been  duly  in- 
stalled. This  I proclaim  from  the  South  (West, 
East.)  The  craft  will  take  due  notice  thereof 
and  govern  themselves  accordingly.  * * ❖ 

Brethren  of  Grand  Lodge  attend  the  Grand 
Honors. 


72 


The  same  proclamation  is  made  from  the  West  and 
East. 

After  the  proclamation  from  the  South,  the  Grand 
Honors  are  given  once. 

After  the  proclamation  from  the  West,  the  Grand 
Honors  are  given  twice. 

After  the  proclamation  from  the  East,  the  Grand 
Honors  are  given  three  times. 


DEDICATION  OF  MASONIC  HALLS. 


At  the  appointed  time  the  Grand  Lodge  meets  at  a 
convenient  place  near  the  hall  to  be  dedicated,  and  is 
opened. 

The  Lodge  whose  hall  is  to  be  dedicated  must  have 
been  previously  opened,  and  the  officers  and  brethren 
must  be  in  their  places. 

A procession  is  formed  under  the  direction  of  the 
Grand  Marshal,  in  the  following  order : 

Grand  Tiler,  with  drawn  sword. 

Golden  Vessel  of  Corn,  carried  by  a Past  Master. 

Silver  Vessels  of  Wine  and  Oil,  carried  by  two  Past 
Masters. 

Burning  Taper,  carried  by  a Past  Master. 

Holy  Bible,  Square  and  Compasses,  carried  by  old- 
est Past  Master. 

Two  Burning  Tapers,  by  two  Past  Masters. 

Senior  and  Junior  Grand  Deacons. 

Grand  Lecturer. 

Grand  Secretary  and  Grand  Treasurer. 

Senior  and  Junior  Grand  Wardens. 

Deputy  Grand  Master  and  Grand  Chaplain. 

Past  Grand  Masters  and  invited  guests. 

Grand  Master,  supported  by  two  Deacons,  two 
paces  to  the  rear  and  two  paces  to  the  right  and  left, 
respectively. 

On  arriving  at  the  door  of  the  Lodge,  the  Grand 
Marshal  steps  inside  and  announces  : 

G.  Mar. — The  Most  Worshipful  Grand 
Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons  of  the 
State  of  Michigan. 


73 


As  the  announcement  is  made  by  the  Grand  Mar- 
shal, the  Worshipful  Master  calls  up  the  Lodge,  and 
they  remain  standing  until  seated  by  the  Grand  Master. 

The  doors  are  thrown  open  and  the  Grand  Lodge 
march  in,  and  pass  three  times  around  the  room,  to  ap- 
propriate music. 

As  the  Grand  Lodge  officers  reach  their  several 
stations,  the  corresponding  officers  of  the  constituent 
Lodge  resign  their  places  to  the  Grand  Lodge  officers. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Brethren,  the  first  lesson  we 
are  taught  in  Masonry  is  that  no  man  should 
ever  enter  upon  any  great  and  important  un- 
dertaking without  first  invoking  the  blessing 
of  Deity.  Let  us,  therefore,  before  proceeding 
further  with  this  important  ceremony,  first  in- 
voke the  blessing  of  the  Supreme  Architect  of 
the  Universe.  Brother  Grand  Chaplain,  invoke 
the  blessing  of  Deity. 

Then,  all  standing,  the  Grand  Chaplain  repeats  the 
following  prayer : 

Gd.  Chap. — Supreme  Grand  Architect  of 
the  Universe,  by  whose  almighty  word  all 
things  were  made,  and  without  whose  blessing 
the  craftsmen  toil  in  vain,  we  beseech  Thee  to 
be  with  us  at  this  time,  and  to  bless  the  work 
in  which  we  are  engaged.  Graciously  bestow 
upon  us  Wisdom  in  all  our  doings.  Strength  of 
Mind  in  all  our  difficulties,  and  the  Beauty  of 
Harmony  and  Holiness  in  all  our  communica- 
tions and  work.  Let  faith  be  the  foundation 
of  our  Hope,  and  Charity  the  fruit  of  our  obedi- 
ence to  Thy  revealed  will ; and  may  these  and 
all  our  services  better  prepare  us  for  a nobler 
service  in  the  Celestial  Lodge  above,  where 
Thou  art  the  Light  and  Glory.  Amen. 

Response — So  mote  it  be. 

Then  may  be  sung  the  following,  or  some  other 
suitable  ode : 


74 


Hail,  Universal  Lord ! 

By  heaven  and  earth  adored, 

All  hail,  great  God ! 

Before  Thy  throne  we  bend ; 

To  us  Thy  grace  extend, 

And  to  our  prayer  attend; 

All  hail,  great  God ! 

Oh,  hear  our  prayer  today. 

Turn  not  Thy  face  away. 

Oh,  Lord,  our  God ! 

Heaven,  Thy  dwelling  place. 

Cannot  contain  Thy  grace. 

Remember  now  our  race. 

Oh,  Lord,  our  God ! 

God  of  our  fathers,  hear. 

And  to  our  cry  be  near, 

Jehovah,  God! 

The  Heavens  eternal  bow. 

Forgive  in  mercy  now ; 

Thy  supplicants  hear.  Oh  Thou 
Jehovah,  God  I 

The  brethren  are  then  seated  by  the  Grand  Master. 

The  Worshipful  Master  of  the  Lodge  whose  hall  is 
to  be  dedicated  then  addresses  the  Grand  Master  as  fol- 
lows : 

W.  M. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master, 
the  Masonic  fraternity  of  this  city,  being  ani- 
mated with  a desire  to  promote  the  honor  and 
interests  of  the  craft,  have  erected  this  hall 
(temple)  for  their  accommodation  and  use  in 
promulgating  the  lofty  principles  of  Masonry. 
They  respectfully  request  that  it  be  examined 
by  the  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Lodge,  and  if 
it  shall  meet  your  approval  that  it  shall  at  this 
time  be  solemnly  dedicated  to  Masonic  pur- 
poses, according  to  the  ancient  customs  and 
usages  of  the  craft. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Worshipful  brother,  the  zeal 
displayed  by  this  Lodge  in  the  erection  of  this 


75 


hall  (temple)  entitles  them  to  the  commenda- 
tion of  the  entire  craft.  In  accordance  with 
your  request,  we  will  inspect  the  various  apart- 
ments, try  them  by  the  Square,  Level  and 
Plumb,  and  in  order  that  it  may  be  done  in 
ancient  form,  you  will  cause  the  proper  work- 
ing tools  to  be  delivered  to  us. 

The  Architect,  or  person  appointed  to  superintend 
the  erection  of  the  hall,  shall  then  say : 

Gd.  Architect — Most  Worshipful  Grand 
Master,  having  been  entrusted  with  the  super- 
intendence and  management  of  the  workmen 
employed  in  the  construction  of  this  edifice, 
and  having,  according  to  the  best  of  my  ability, 
accomplished  the  task  assigned  to  me,  I return 
my  thanks  for  the  honor  of  this  appointment, 
and  beg  leave  to  surrender  up  the  implements 
which  were  committed  to  my  care  when  the 
foundation  of  this  fabric  was  laid,  humbly  hop- 
ing that  the  exertions  which  have  been  made 
on  this  occasion  will  be  crowned  with  your  ap- 
probation and  that  of  the  Most  Worshipful 
Grand  Lodge.  (Hands  working  tools  to  Grand 
Master.) 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Worshipful  Grand  Marshal. 

Gr.  Mar. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master. 

M.  W,  G.  M.— Present  these  working  tools 
to  the  proper  Grand  Officers. 

Marshal  presents  Square  to  the  Deputy  Grand  Mas- 
ter, Level  to  Senior  Grand,  Warden  and  Plumb  to  Junior 
Grand  Warden. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Right  Worshipful  Deputy 
Grand  Master. 

D.  G.  M. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — What  is  the  proper  imple- 
ment of  your  office? 


76 


D.  G.  M. — The  Square. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — What  are  its  moral  and  Ma- 
sonic uses? 

D.  G.  M. — To  square  our  actions  by  the 
Square  of  Virtue  and  prove  our  work. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Apply  the  Square  to  those 
parts  of  this  building  that  should  be  square, 
and  make  report. 

The  Deput}^  Grand  Master  applies  the  Square  to  the 
four  corners  of  the  room,  and  returns  to  his  station. 
While  he  is  doing  so,  the  Grand  Chaplain  reads  the  fol- 
lowing selection  of  Scripture : 

Psalm  cxxii. — I was  glad  when  they  said 
unto  me,  let  us  go  into  the  house  of  the  Lord. 
Our  feet  shall  stand  within  thy  gates,  oh, 
Jerusalem.  Jerusalem  is  budded  as  a city  that 
is  compact  together.  Whither  the  tribes  go  up, 
the  tribes  of  the  Lord,  unto  the  testimony  of 
Israel,  to  give  thanks  unto  the  name  of  the 
Lord. 

D.  G.  M. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master, 
I find  this  building  to  be  square.  The  crafts- 
men have  performed  their  duty. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Right  Worshipful  Senior 
Grand  Warden. 

S.  G.  W. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — What  is  the  proper  imple- 
ment of  your  office? 

S.  G.'W.— The  Level. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — What  are  its  moral  and  Ma- 
sonic uses? 

S.  G.  W. — Morally  it  teaches  equality,  and 
we  use  it  to  lay  horizontals. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Apply  the  Level  to  those 
parts  of  this  building  which  should  be  level, 
and  make  report. 


77 


The  Senior  Grand  Warden  applies  the  Level  in  the 
South,  West  and  East,  and  returns  to  his  station.  While 
he  is  doing  so,  the  Grand  Chaplain  reads  the  following 
selection  of  Scripture : 

For  there  are  set  thrones  of  judgment,  the 
thrones  of  the  house  of  David.  Pray  for  the 
peace  of  Jerusalem;  they  shall  prosper  that 
love  Thee. 

S.  G.  W. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master, 
I find  this  building  to  be  level.  The  craftsmen 
have  performed  their  duty. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Right  Worshipful  Junior 
Grand  Warden. 

J.  G.  W. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — What  is  the  proper  imple- 
ment of  your  office  ? 

J.  G.  W.— The  Plumb. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — What  are  its  moral  and  Ma- 
sonic uses? 

J.  G.  W. — Morally  it  teaches  rectitude  of 
conduct,  and  we  use  it  to  try  perpendiculars. 

M.  W,  G.  M. — Apply  the  plumb  to  those 
parts  of  this  building  which  should  be  plumb, 
and  make  report. 

The  Junior  Grand  Warden  tries  the  several  walls  of 
the  building.  While  he  is  doing  so,  the  Grand  Chap- 
lain reads  the  following  selection  of  Scripture: 

Peace  be  within  thy  walls  and  prosperity 
within  thy  palaces.  For  my  brethren  and  com- 
panions’ sakes  I will  now  say,  Peace  be  within 
thee.  Because  of  the  house  of  the  Lord  our 
God,  I will  seek  thy  good. 

J.  G.  A¥. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master, 
I find  this  building  to  be  plumb.  The  crafts- 
men have  performed  their  duty. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Brethren,  the  reports  of  our 
officers  convince  us  that  the  building  which 


78 


you  have  erected  is  entitled  to  our  approval, 
and  our  inspection  satisfies  us  that  the  various 
rooms  are  well  arranged  for  the  work  of  Free- 
masonry. We  congratulate  you  on  the  suc- 
cessful completion  of  your  arduous  labors,  and 
we  will  now  proceed  to  dedicate  this  temple, 
agreeably  to  ancient  form  and  usage,  trusting 
that  it  may  continue  a lasting  monument  to  the 
spirit  and  genius  of  Freemasonry,  and  the  taste 
and  liberality  of  its  founders. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Worshipful  Grand  Marshal. 

Gd.  Mar. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Form  the  procession. 

Gd.  Mar. — Brethren  of  the  Grand  Lodge, 
form  in  procession. 

Grand  Officers  fall  in  in  single  file,  Grand  Master 
leading,  preceded  by  one  Deacon  and  followed  by  the 
other ; the  other  officers  fall  in  according  to  rank.  The 
Grand  Marshal  leads  the  procession  once  around  the 
Lodge,  halting  when  the  Grand  Master  reaches  the  East 
of  the  altar.  Appropriate  music  during  marching.  The 
officers  halt  in  the  form  of  a square  about  the  altar. 

Grand  Chaplain  standing  at  the  altar,  reads  I.  Kings, 
vii.,  13-14. 

And  King  Solomon  sent  and  fetched  Hiram 
out  of  Tyre. 

He  was  a widow’s  son  of  the  tribe  of  Naph- 
tali,  and  his  father  was  a man  of  Tyre,  a 
worker  in  brass ; and  he  was  filled  with  wis- 
dom and  understanding,  and  cunning  to  work 
all  v/orks  in  brass.  And  he  came  to  King 
Solomon  and  wrought  all  his  work. 

During  reading  Grand  Marshal  presents  Vessel  of 
Corn  to  Junior  Grand  Warden. 

Junior  Grand  Warden,  presenting  Vessel  of  Corn  to 
the  Grand  Master,  says : 

T.  G.  W. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master, 
in  the  dedication  of  Masonic  Halls,  it  has  been 


79 


the  immemorial  custom  to  pour  corn  upon  the 
Lodge  as  an  emblem  of  nourishment.  I there- 
fore  present  you  this  Vessel  of  Corn,  to  be 
employed  by  you  according  to  ancient  usage. 

Grand  Master  pours  corn  upon  the  carpet,  saying : 

M.  W.  G.  M. — In  the  name  of  the  Great 
Jehovah,  to  whom  be  all  honor  and  glory,  I do 
solemnly  dedicate  this  temple,  with  all  its 
apartments  and  appointments,  its  various  halls 
and  corridors,  its  furniture  and  appurtenances, 
to  Freemasonry. 

M.  W.  G.  "M. — Brethren  of  Grand  Lodge, 
attend  the  Grand  Honors. 

The  Grand  Honors  are  given  once. 

The  Procession  marches  again  once  around  the 
lodge,  halting  as  before. 

Grand  Chaplain,  at  the  altar,  reads  I.  Kings,  vii., 

15,  16,  17. 

For  he  cast  two  pillars  of  brass,  of  eighteen 
cubits  high  apiece ; and  a line  of  twelve  cubits 
did  compass  either  of  them  about. 

And  he  made  two  chapiters  of  molten  brass, 
to  set  upon  the  tops  of  the  pillars ; the  height 
of  the  one  chapiter  was  five  cubits  and  the 
height  of  the  other  chapiter  was  five  cubits. 

And  nets  of  checker  work,  and  wreaths  of 
chain-work,  for  the  chapiters  which  were  upon 
the  top  of  the  pillars ; seven  for  the  one  chapi- 
ter and  seven  for  the  other  chapiter. 

' During  reading.  Grand  Marshal  presents  Vessel  of 
Wine  to  Senior  Grand  Warden. 

Senior  Grand  Warden  presents  Vessel  of  Wine  to 
Grand  Master. 

S.  G.  W. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master, 
wine,  the  emblem  of  refreshment,  having  been 
used  by  our  ancient  brethren  in  the  dedication 
and  consecration  of  their  Lodges,  I present  you 


80 


this  vessel  of  wine,  to  be  used  on  the  present 
occasion,  according  to  ancient  Masonic  fonn. 

The  Grand  Master  sprinkles  wine  upon  the  carpet, 
saying : 

M.  W.  G.  M. — In  the  name  of  the  holy 
Saints  John,  I do  solemnly  dedicate  this  tem- 
ple, with  all  its  apartments  and  appointments, 
its  A^arious  halls  and  corridors,  its  furniture  and 
appurtenances,  to  Virtue. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Brethren  of  Grand  Lodge, 
attend  the  Grand  Honors. 

Grand  Honors  given  twice. 

The  procession  marches  once  around  the  room, 
halting  as  before. 

Grand  Chaplain,  standing  before  the  altar,  reads 
I.  Kings,  vii,  i8  to  22,  inclusive.  During  reading,  Grand 
Marshal  presents  Vessel  of  Oil  to  Deputy  Grand  Master. 

And  he  made  the  pillars,  and  two  rows 
round  about  upon  the  one  net  work,  to  cover 
the  chapiters  that  were  upon  the  top,  with 
pomegranates ; and  so  did  he  for  the  other 
chapiter. 

And  the  chapiters  that  were  upon  the  top  of 
the  pillars  were  of  lily-work  in  the  porch,  four 
cubits. 

And  the  chapiters  upon  the  two  pillars  had 
pomegranates  also  above,  over  against  the 
belly  which  was  by  the  net  work ; and  the  pom- 
egranates were  two  hundred  in  rows  round 
about  upon  the  other  chapiter. 

And  he  set  up  the  pillars  in  the  porch  of  the 
temple ; and  he  set  up  the  right  pillar,  and 
called  the  name  thereof  Jachin.  And  he  set  up 
the  left  pillar,  and  called  the  name  thereof 
Boaz. 

And  upon  the  top  of  the  pillars  was  lily- 
work.  So  was  the  work  of  the  pillars  finished. 


81 


Deputy  Grand  Master  presents  Vessel  of  Oil  to 
Grand  Master,  saying:- 

D.  G.  M. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master, 
I present  you,  to  be  used  on  this  occasion,  ac- 
cording to  ancient  custom,  this  vessel  of  oil, 
an  emblem  of  that  joy  Avhich  should  animate 
every  bosom  on  the  completion  of  every  im- 
portant undertaking. 

The  Grand  Master  sprinkles  oil  upon  the  carpet, 
saying : 

M.  W.  G.  M. — In  the  name  of  the  whole 
fraternity,  wheresoever  dispersed,  I do  solemn- 
ly dedicate  this  temple,  with  all  things  that 
pertain  thereto,  to  Universal  Benevolence. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Brethren  of  Grand  Lodge, 
attend  the  Grand  Honors. 

Grand  Honors  are  given  three  times. 

The  Grand  Officers  march  once  around  the  Lodge, 
resuming  their  stations. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Right  Worshipful  Grand 
Chaplain. 

Gd.  Chap. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Mas- 
ter. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Lead  us  in  a dedicatory 
prayer. 

The  Grand  Chaplain  may  use  the  following,  or  an 
extemporaneous  dedicatory  prayer. 

Gd.  Chap. — Supreme  Architect  of  the  Uni- 
verse, wh.o  sittest  upon  the  circle  of  the  earth 
and  doest  Thy  will  in  the  army  of  Heaven  and 
among  the  inhabitants  of  the  earth,  the 
Heaven  and  Heaven  of  Heavens  cannot  con- 
tain Thee ; how  much  less  this  house  that  we 
have  built.  Thou  dwellest  in  light  inaccessible 
and  full  of  glory,  yet  Thou  hast  made  Thyself 
known  unto  us  and  Thy  saving  health  among 
all  nations. 


82 


We  come  to  offer  Thee  this  temple,  builded 
with  all  the  skill  of  cunning  workmen,  adorned 
with  all  the  beauty  of  human  art,  and  furnished 
with  all  the  vessels  convenient  for  our  service 
in  the  ritual  of  our  worship ; and  with  devout 
gratitude  for  the  gracious  privilege,  we  now 
solemnly  dedicate  it  all  to  Thee,  and  at  the 
same  time  renew  our  vows  of  consecration  to 
those  principles  of  Freemasonry  inspired  by 
Thy  word,  Friendship,  Morality  and  Brotherly 
Love. 

May  the  Shekinah  of  Thy  presence  fill  this 
place  with  greater  glory  than  that  of  the  first 
Temple.  By  the  light  of  Thy  word  may  we  be 
instructed,  by  the  light  of  Thy  countenance 
may  we  be  cheered,  and  by  the  light  of  that 
glorious  hope  may  we  be  inspired  to  do  great 
things  for  Thee.  May  these  walls  whisper  only 
accents  of  Truth;  these  halls  echo  the  tread  of 
manly  footsteps,  and  these  chambers  witness 
such  acts  of  Charity  as  will  gladden  the  human 
heart. 

We  offer  all  these,  the  work  of  Freemasons 
of  this  city,  for  the  approval  and  acceptance  of 
the  God  of  Masons  all  over  the  world,  and 
when  the  earthly  house  of  this  tabernacle  is 
dissolved,  may  we  all  be  permitted  to  enter 
that  house  not  made  with  hands,  eternal  in  the 
heavens.  Amen. 

Response — So  mote  it  be. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Worshipful  Grand  Marshal. 

Gd.  Mar. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master. 

M.  W.  G.  M. — Make  your  proclamation. 

Gd.  Mar. — In  the  name  of  the  Most  Wor- 
shipful Grand  Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted 
Masons  of  the  State  of  Michigan,  I proclaim 


83 


that  this  temple  has  been  solemnly  dedicated 
by  Most  Worshipful  Grand  Mas- 

ter of  Masons.  This  I proclaim  from  the  East. 
The  craft  will  take  due  notice  thereof  and  gov- 
ern themselves  accordingly. 

(Same  proclamation  from  the  West  and  South.) 


LAYING  CORNER  STONE. 


Grand  Marshal — In  the  name  of  the  Most 
Worshipful  Grand  Lodge  of  Eree  and  Ac- 
cepted Masons  of  the  State  of  Michigan,  I do 
now  command  all  persons  here  assembled  to 
keep  silence  and  to  observe  due  order  and  de- 
corum during  the  ceremonies.  This  procla- 
mation I make  that  each  and  every  person  may 
govern  himself  accordingly. 

The  mayor  or  other  public  official,  will  invite  the 
Grand  Master,  in  these  or  other  appropriate  words,  to 
lay  the  corner  stone: 

Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master:  The  peo- 
ple of  this  city  (or  county)  have  undertaken  to 
erect  on  the  place  where  we  now  stand,  an  edi- 
fice to  be  devoted  to  the  uses  of  the  municipal- 
ity (or  county).  We  hope  it  may  long  serve 
the  purposes  for  which  it  is  being  constructed ; 
that  Strength  and  Beauty  may  adorn  all  its 
part«^,  and  Wisdom  continually  go  forth  from 
within  its  walls  to  enlighten  the  community. 
On  behalf  of  those  engaged  in  its  erection,  I 
now  most  respectfully  request  that  you  lay  the 
corner  stone  thereof,  according  to  the  forms 
and  ceremonies  of  your  ancient  and  honorable 
fraternity. 


84 


G.  M. — From  time  immemorial  it  has  been 
the  custom  for  Freemasons  to  join  with  their 
operative  brethren  on  occasions  such  as  this^ 
and  to  lay,  with  fitting  ceremonies,  the  corner 
stones  of  important  public  buildings.  In  ac- 
cordance with  that  custom,  we  accept  your  in- 
vitation, so  graciously  given.  We  have  as- 
sembled our  Grand  Lodge  in  special  communi- 
cation for  that  purpose,  and  will  proceed  to  lay 
this  foundation  stone  according  to  ancient 
Masonic  usage. 

One  of  the  first  lessons  which  Freemasonry 
teaches  is  that  in  all  our  works,  great  or  small, 
begun  or  finished,  we  should  seek  the  aid  of 
Almighty  God.  It  is  our  first  duty,  then,  upon 
this  occasion,  to  invoke  the  blessing  of  the  Su- 
preme Architect  of  the  Universe  upon  the  work 
in  which  we  are  about  to  engage.  I,  therefore, 
command  the  utmost  sile'nce,  and  request  all  to 
unite  with  our  Grand  Chaplain  in  an  address  to 
the  Throne  of  Grace. 

The  brethren  uncover  during  prayer.  The  Grand 
Chaplain  may  use  the  following,  or  an  extemporaneous 
prayer : 

PRAYER  BY  THE  GRAND  CHAPLAIN. 

Almighty  God ! who  hath  given  us  grace  at 
this  time,  with  one  accord,  to  make  our  com- 
mon supplication  unto  Thee,  we  most  heartily 
beseech  Thee  to  behold  with  favor  and  bless 
this  assemblage.  Pour  down  Thy  mercies,  like 
the  dew  that  falls  upon  the  mountains,  upon 
Thy  servants  engaged  in  the  solemn  cere- 
monies of  this  day.  Help  us  wisely  and  well 
to  do  the  work  assigned  to  us,  and  may  this 
corner  stone  be  safely  deposited  in  its  allotted 
place.  Well  and  fittingly  may  it  be  laid;  may 


85 


there  be  erected  upon  it  a structure  worthy  of 
the  purpose  it  is  designed  to  subserve;  and 
may  this  building,  so  auspiciously  begun,  pro- 
gress to  its  completion  under  Thy  gracious 
care.  As  today,  with  exultant  hearts,  we  lay 
its  corner  stone,  so  with  ever  heightening  joy 
may  we  witness  its  progress  until  safely  and 
happily  the  top-most  stone  shall  be  laid,  and 
those  who  work  and  those  who  behold,  shall 
rejoice  together  in  its  completion.  Bless,  we 
pray  Thee,  all  the  workmen  who  shall  be  en- 
gaged in  its  erection.  Keep  them  from  all 
forms  of  accident  and  harm,  and  grant  them 
in  health  and  prosperity  to  live.  Fulfill  the 
desires  of  all  Thy  servants  as  may  be  most 
expedient  for  them,  granting  to  all  of  us  in 
this  world,  knowledge  of  the  truth,  and  in  the 
world  to  come,  everlasting  life.  Amen. 

Response  by  the  brethren — So  mote  it  be. 

MUSIC. 

The  Grand  Marshal  introduces  the  Chairman  of  the 
Building  Committee. 

G.  Mar. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master, 
I have  the  pleasure  of  presenting  to  you 

Brother  (or  Mr.)  , the  chairman 

of  the  building  committee,  to  whose  hands  has 
been  entrusted  the  work  of  erecting  this  build- 
ing. 

The  Chairman  of  the  Building  Committee  addresses 
the  Grand  Master : 

Most  Worshipful  Sir:  The  committee 

charged  with  the  duty  of  preparing  the  corner 
stone  and  making  arrangements  for  its  being 
laid,  have  completed  that  part  of  their  labors. 
It  is  ready  now  to  be  made  the  chief  foundation 
stone  of  this  building. 


86 


G.  M. — Brother  (or  Mr.)  , it  has 

ever  been  the  custom  to  deposit  within  the 
cavity  in  corner  stones,  certain  memorials  of 
the  period  at  which  the  building  was  erected, 
so  that  in  the  lapse  of  ages,  if  the  fury  of  the 
elements  or  the  slow  but  certain  ravages  of 
time  should  lay  bare  its  foundations,  an  endur- 
ing record  may  be  found,  by  succeeding  gen- 
erations, to  bear  testimony  to  the  industry, 
energy  and  culture  of  our  time. 

Have  you  prepared  any  articles  to  be  de- 
posited in  this  stone?  If  so,  please  present 
them  and  a list  thereof. 

Chairman  of  Building  Committee  presents  box  and 
list,  and  says : 

Most  Worshipful  Sir,  the  various  articles 
are  safely  enclosed  within  this  casket,  and  here 
is  a list  of  them. 

The  Grand  Master  delivers  the  list  to  the  Grand 
Secretary,  and  says : 

R.  W.  Grand  Secretary,  read  the  list. 

Grand  Secretary  reads ; after  which  the  Grand  Mas- 
ter delivers  box  to  the  Grand  Treasurer,  and  says: 

R.  W.  Grand  Treasurer,  assisted  by  the 
Grand  Deacons,  you  will  now  deposit  the  box 
in  the  cavity  in  (or  beneath)  the  corner  stone, 
and  may  the  Great  Architect  of  the  Universe 
in  His  wisdom,  grant  that  ages  on  ages  shall 
pass  away  ere  it  shall  again  be  seen  of  men. 

After  the  box  is  deposited.  Grand  Treasurer  says: 

G.  T. — M.  W.  G.  M.,  your  orders  have  been 
duly  executed.  The  box  containing  the  articles 
has  been  safely  placed  in  the  cavity  prepared 
for  it. 

G.  M. — Brother  Grand  Marshal,  direct  the 


87 


craftsmen  to  furnish  the  cement  and  prepare  to 
lower  the  stone. 

The  Grand  Master,  supported  by  the  Deacons,  then 
steps  to  the  stone,  and  laying  his  hands  on  it,  says : 

Almighty  and  Eternal  God,  by  whom  were 
all  things  made,  grant  that  whatsoever  shall  be 
builded  on  this  stone  shall  be  builded  to  Thy 
honor  and  the  glory  of  Thy  name,  to  which  be 
praise  forever.  Amen. 

Response — So  mote  it  be. 

The  Grand  Master  then  spreads  a portion  of  the 
cement.  The  stone  is  then  lowered  about  one-third  the 
distance  and  stopped,  when  the  public  Grand  Honors 
are  given  once,  the  Grand  Master  leading  and  announc- 
ing: - 

G.  M. — Together,  brethren,  the  Grand  Hon- 
ors. 

The  stone  is  lowered  another  third  of  the  distance 
and  stopped,  and  the  Grand  Honors  given  twice,  the 
Grand  Master  leading  and  announcing  as  before.  The 
stone  is  then  lowered  to  its  permanent  place  and  the 
Grand  Honors  given  three  times  under  direction  of 
the  Grand  Master.  During  the  whole  time  of  the  low- 
ering of  the  stone,  there  should  be  soft  music  by  the 
band  or  orchestra. 

If  the  cavity  for  the  box  is  in  the  top  of  the  corner 
stone,  instead  of  below  it,  this  ceremony  of  lowering  the 
stone  should  precede  the  deposit  of  the  box. 

After  the  corner  stone  has  been  placed,  the  Grand 
Master,  addressing  the  Master  Architect,  says : 

G.  M. — Brother  Master  Architect,  you  will 
now  present  your  working  tools. 

Master  Architect — Most  Worshipful  Grand 
Master,  I present  you  the  working  tools  of 
Operative  Masonry,  which  are  considered  by 
our  craft  the  most  valued  jewels  of  the  Lodge, 
symbols  of  important  truths,  and  teaching  les- 
sons of  wisdom  and  morality. 


88 


The  Grand  Master  delivers  the  working  tools  to  the 
Grand  Marshal,  saying : 

G.  M. — Worshipful  Grand  Marshal,  deliver 
these  implements  of  the  craft  to  the  proper  of- 
ficers. 

The  Grand  Marshal  delivers  the  Square  to  the 
Deputy  Grand  Master,  the  Level  to  the  Senior  Grand 
Warden,  and  the  Plumb  to  the  Junior  Grand  Warden. 

The  following  then  occurs,  care  being  taken  by  all 
to  speak  loudly  and  distinctly  enough  to  be  heard  well : 

G.  M. — Right  Worshipful  Deputy  Grand 
Master,  what  is  the  proper  implement  of  your 
office? 

D.  G.  M. — The  Square. 

G.  M. — What  are  its  moral  and  Masonic 
uses  ? 

D.  G.  M. — To  square  our  actions  by  the 
square  of  virtue  and  prove  our  work. 

G.  M. — Apply  the  Square  to  that  portion  of 
this  foundation  stone  that  needs  to  be  square, 
and  make  report. 

The  Deputy  applies  the  Square  to  the  stone  and  says  : 

D.  G.  M. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master, 
1 find  the  stone  to  be  square.  The  craftsmen 
have  performed  their  duty. 

G.  M. — Right  Worshipful  Senior  Grand 
Warden,  what  is  the  proper  implement  of  your 
office  ? 

S.  G.  W.— The  Level 

G.  M. — What  are  its  moral  and  Masonic 
uses  ? 

S.  G.  W. — Morally,  it  teaches  us  equality, 
and  we  use  it  to  lay  horizontals. 

G.  M. — Apply  the  implement  of  your  office 
to  this  foundation  stone  and  make  report. 

This  is  done. 


89 


S.  G.  W. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master, 
I find  the  stone  to  be  level.  The  craftsmen 
have  performed  their  duty. 

G.  M. — Right  Worshipful  Junior  Grand 
Warden,  what  is  the  proper  implement  of  your 
office? 

J.  G.  W.— The  Plumb. 

G.  M. — What  are  its  moral  and  Masonic 
uses  ? 

J.  G.  W. — Morally,  it  teaches  rectitude  of 
conduct,  and  we  use  it  to  try  perpendiculars. 

G.  M. — Apply  the  implement  of  your  office 
to  the  several  edges  of  this  foundation  stone 
and  make  report. 

This  is  done. 

J.  G.  W. — Most  Worshipful  Grand  Master, 
I find  the  stone  to  be  plumb.  The  craftsmen 
have  performed  their  duty. 

G.  M. — This  corner  stone  has  been  tested 
by  the  proper  implements  of  Masonry.  I find 
that  the  craftsmen  have  faithfully  and  skillfully 
performed  their  duty,  and  I do  declare  the 
stone  to  be  well  formed,  square,  level,  plumb: 
and  correctly  laid,  according  to  the  rules  of  our 
ancient  craft.  Let  the  elements  of  consecration 
now  be  presented. 

The  Deputy  Grand  Master  comes  forward  with  the 
Vessel  of  Corn  and  scatters  it  on  the  stone,  saying: 

D.  G.  M. — I scatter  this  corn  as  an  emblem 
of  plenty.  May  the  blessings  of  bounteous 
heaven  be  showered  upon  this,  and  upon  all 
like  patriotic  and  benevolent  undertakings,  and 
inspire  the  hearts  of  the  people  with  virtue, 
wisdom  and  gratitude.  Amen. 

Response — So  mote  it  be. 


90 


The  Senior  Grand  Warden  then  comes  forward 
with  the  Vessel  of  Wine  and  pours  it  upon  the  stone, 
saying : 

S.  G.  W. — I pour  this  wine  as  an  emblem 
of  joy  and  gladness.  May  the  Great  Ruler  of 
the  Universe  bless  and  prosper  our  National, 
State  and  City  governments,  preserve  the 
Union  of  the  States,  and  may  it  be  a bond  of 
friendship  and  brotherly  love  that  shall  endure 
through  all  time.  Amen. 

Response — So  mote  it  be. 

The  Junior  Grand  Warden  then  comes  forward 
with  the  Vessel  of  Oil  which  he  pours  upon  the  stone, 
saying : 

J.  G.  W. — I pour  this  oil  as  an  emblem  of 
peace.  May  its  blessings  abide  with  us  con- 
tinually, and  may  the  Grand  Master  of  Heaven 
and  Earth  shelter  and  protect  the  widow  and 
orphan,  shield  and  defend  them  from  the  trials 
and  vicissitudes  of  the  world,  and  so  bestow 
His  mercy  upon  the  bereaved,  the  afflicted  and 
the  sorrowing,  that  they  may  know  sorrowing 
and  trouble  no  more.  Amen. 

Response — So  mote  it  be. 

The  Grand  Master,  standing  in  front  of  all  and  ex- 
tending his  hands,  makes  the  following 

INVOCATION. 

G.  M. — May  the  all-bounteous  Author  of 
Nature  bless  the  inhabitants  of  this  place  with 
an  abundance  of  the  necessaries,  conveniences 
and  comforts  of  life ; assist  in  the  erection  and 
completion  of  this  building;  protect  the  work- 
men against  every  accident ; long  preserve  the 
structure  from  decay;  and  grant  to  us  all  a 
plentiful  supply  of  the  Corn  of  Nourishment, 
the  Wine  of  Refreshment  and  the  Oil  of  Joy. 
Amen. 


91 


Response — So  mote  it  be. 

The  Grand  Master,  supported  by  the  Grand  Dea- 
cons, the  Senior  Grand  Deacon,  bearing  the  Trowel  and 
the  Junior  Grand  Deacon  bearing  the  gavel,  then  steps 
to  the  stone,  spreads  some  cement  upon  the  stone  and 
strikes  it  three  times  with  the  gavel.  The  Public  Grand 
Honors  are  then  given  three  times  under  the  direction 
of  the  Grand  Master.  The  Grand  Master  then  retires  to 
his  place. 

The  Grand  Master  being  in  his  place,  the  Grand 
Marshal  will  present  the  Architect  as  follows : 

G.  Mar. — M.  W.  Grand  Master,  I present  to 
you  the  architect  of  this  building.  He  is  ready 
with  craftsmen,  for  the  work  and  asks  the  tools 
for  his  task. 

The  Grand  Master  will  then  give  him  the  Square, 
Level,  Plumb  and  plan  of  the  building,  saying: 

Brother  Grand  Architect,  having  thus,  as 
Grand  Master  of  Masons,  laid  the  corner  stone 
of  this  structure,  I,  with  pleasure,  return  to  you 
your  working  tools,  and  confide  to  your  hands 
the  plan  of  the  building.  Labor  on  in  this  task, 
and  be  blessed,  my  brother,  in  the  work.  May 
there  be  Wisdom  in  the  plan.  Strength  in  the 
execution  and  Beauty  in  the  adornment;  and 
when  completed,  may  Wisdom  be  within  its 
walls  to  enlighten.  Strength  to  encourage  and 
sustain  its  rulers,  and  the  Beauty  of  holiness  to 
adorn  their  work. 

An  appropriate  anthem  may  then  be  sung. 

The  Grand  Master  then  addresses  the  assembly  as 
follows : 

G.  M. — Men  and  brethren  here  assembled: 
Be  it  known  unto  you,  that  we  be  lawful  Ma- 
sons, true  and  faithful  to  the  laws  of  our  coun- 


try,  and  engaged  by  solemn  obligations  to  erect 
magnificent  buildings,  to  be  serviceable  to  all 
men,  and  to  love  God,  the  Great  Architect  of 
the  Universe.  We  have  among  us,  concealed 
from  the  eyes  of  men,  secrets  which  cannot  be 
divulged,  but  which  are  lawful  and  honorable, 
and  not  repugnant  to  the  laws  of  God  or  man. 
They  were  intrusted  in  peace  and  honor  to  the 
Masons  of  ancient  times,  and  having  been 
faithfully  transmitted  to  us,  it  is  our  duty  to 
convey  them  unimpaired  to  the  latest  posterity. 
Unless  our  craft  was  good  and  our  calling  hon- 
orable, we  should  not  have  lasted  for  so  many 
centuries,  nor  should  we  have  been  honored 
with  the  patronage  of  so  many  illustrious  men 
in  all  ages,  who  have  ever  shown  themselves 
ready  to  promote  our  interests  and  defend  us 
against  all  adversaries. 

We  are  assembled  here  today  to  lay  the 
corner  stone  of  a house,  which,  we  pray  God, 
may  deserve  to  prosper,  by  becoming  a place 
of  concourse  for  good  men,  and  promoting  har- 
mony and  brotherly  love  throughout  the  world, 
until  Time  shall  be  no  more.  Amen. 

Response — So  mote  it  be. 

G.  M. — W.  G.  Marshal,  make  your  procla-- 
mation. 

The  Grand  Marshal  then  announces  in  a loud  voice : 

G.  Mar. — In  the  name  of  the  most  Worship- 
ful Grand  Lodge  of  Free  and  Accepted  Masons 
of  the  State  of  Michigan,  I proclaim  that  this 
corner  stone  has  this  day  been  found  square, 
level  and  plumb,  and  has  been  laid  in  ample 
and  ancient  form  by Grand 


93 


Master  of  Masons,  according  to  the  customs  of 
the  ancient  craft. 

' (Oration.) 


The  procession  in  the  same  order  returns  to  the 
place  whence  it  came,  and  the  Grand  Lodge  is  closed 
with  the  usual  ceremonies. 


\ 


